48125, Dearborn Heights, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48125, Dearborn Heights, Michigan is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.03 percent of residents in 48125 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Dearborn with a distance of 2.72 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 48125 (Dearborn Heights, MI)**

The quest for timely and accessible breast cancer care is a critical consideration for anyone residing in, or contemplating a move to, Dearborn Heights, Michigan (ZIP code 48125). This assessment, a “Breast Cancer Score,” considers the intricate interplay of transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors impacting early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. We'll delve into the specifics of commuting to healthcare facilities, evaluating drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities in this area.

Dearborn Heights, a vibrant community in the Detroit metropolitan area, presents a unique set of circumstances. The city's layout, coupled with its proximity to major thoroughfares and healthcare institutions, influences the ease with which residents can access potentially life-saving medical services. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is paramount for anyone concerned about breast cancer care.

**Drive Times and Highway Access**

For those who prefer the autonomy of personal vehicles, the efficiency of the transportation network is a key consideration. Access to major highways is generally good, though traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.

The primary artery for east-west travel is Ford Road, a major thoroughfare that can lead directly to several healthcare facilities. Drive times to hospitals like Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, located just east of the city, can vary significantly. During off-peak hours, the journey might take approximately 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, potentially exceeding 30 minutes.

North-south travel is facilitated by Telegraph Road, another critical route. Traveling north on Telegraph Road provides access to healthcare facilities in Taylor and Southfield, though these journeys typically involve longer drive times, potentially 20-45 minutes depending on traffic. The Southfield Freeway (M-39) offers a more direct route to some healthcare facilities, but its high-speed traffic can be challenging.

The I-94 freeway is accessible from the southern part of Dearborn Heights, offering a faster route to downtown Detroit and its numerous medical centers. However, the I-94 corridor is often heavily congested, particularly during morning and evening commutes. The drive to Detroit-based hospitals could take anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Routes**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transit services within Dearborn Heights and the surrounding areas. While public transit offers an alternative to driving, its impact on healthcare access is somewhat limited by route frequency and accessibility.

Several SMART bus routes serve Dearborn Heights. Route 16 (Michigan Avenue) provides east-west service, connecting to downtown Detroit and other areas. Route 54 (Warren Avenue) offers north-south service, connecting to Dearborn and other communities. Route 140 (Ford Road) also provides east-west service.

The frequency of these routes can be a significant factor. During peak hours, buses may run every 30-60 minutes, but during off-peak hours, the wait times can be longer. This can be a significant deterrent for those needing timely medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is an important consideration. SMART buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the overall accessibility of the system can be limited by factors such as sidewalk conditions and the distance between bus stops and healthcare facilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transit routes or parking challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Dearborn Heights is generally good. Wait times are typically reasonable, and the cost is often competitive with other transportation options. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Ambulance, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services are typically used for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments, or for those who are unable to use other transportation options.

The cost of medical transport services can be substantial, and coverage may vary depending on insurance plans. The availability of medical transport services is generally good in Dearborn Heights, but it is essential to verify insurance coverage and understand the associated costs.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations**

The availability of healthcare facilities in and around Dearborn Heights is generally good. Several hospitals and clinics offer comprehensive breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. However, the specific services offered and the wait times for appointments can vary.

Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, is a major healthcare provider located nearby, offering a full range of breast cancer services. Henry Ford Hospital, located in Detroit, is another prominent healthcare provider with a comprehensive breast cancer program. Other hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas also offer breast cancer care.

Factors such as insurance coverage, the availability of specialists, and the patient's specific needs will influence the choice of healthcare provider. It is essential to research different healthcare facilities and to choose a provider that meets the individual's needs.

**Breast Cancer Score: Summary and Recommendations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 48125 reflects a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. While the area benefits from good highway access and the presence of healthcare facilities, transportation limitations exist. Traffic congestion, the frequency of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing can pose barriers to timely healthcare access.

For residents of Dearborn Heights, or those considering moving there, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a healthcare provider, consider the proximity of the facility and the ease of transportation.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments well in advance, especially for specialized services, and factor in potential travel delays.
* **Explore all options:** Investigate all transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, and choose the most suitable option based on individual needs and circumstances.
* **Advocate for improvements:** Support initiatives that improve public transit, reduce traffic congestion, and expand access to healthcare services.

The Breast Cancer Score for 48125 highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers good access to healthcare facilities, the effectiveness of this access depends on the ability to navigate the transportation network efficiently. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents can make informed decisions and advocate for improvements to ensure timely and accessible breast cancer care.