48127, Dearborn Heights, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48127, Dearborn Heights, Michigan is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.38 percent of residents in 48127 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garden City Hospital with a distance of 1.71 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dearborn Heights (ZIP Code 48127)

Dearborn Heights, Michigan, a vibrant community nestled in the heart of Wayne County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding the complexities of transportation within ZIP code 48127 is paramount to assessing the Breast Cancer Score, a critical metric reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This analysis delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing alternatives, offering a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Dearborn Heights or seeking improved healthcare access.

The cornerstone of any healthcare journey is timely access to medical facilities. In Dearborn Heights, this often translates to navigating the bustling roadways. The primary artery is **Ford Road**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east towards Detroit, patients can access hospitals like Henry Ford Hospital (in Detroit) and Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, while heading west leads to facilities in Canton and Livonia. The **Southfield Freeway (M-39)** provides north-south connectivity, offering another route to Detroit hospitals and connecting to major expressways like I-94 and I-96. **Telegraph Road (US-24)**, running north-south, offers access to medical facilities in Taylor and further south.

Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. A typical drive from central Dearborn Heights to Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, might take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours, but can easily double during rush hour. Travel to Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, depending on traffic, can range from 25 minutes to an hour. These variations highlight the importance of planning and considering the potential impact of traffic congestion on healthcare appointments, especially for those undergoing treatment and experiencing physical limitations. The Breast Cancer Score must account for these variables.

Public transportation provides an alternative, though its availability and efficiency are critical factors. The **Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT)** operates bus routes that serve Dearborn Heights, offering a crucial link to hospitals and medical centers. Several routes, including those along Ford Road and Telegraph Road, provide access to key destinations. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

For individuals with disabilities, the **DDOT’s ADA-compliant buses** offer accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. This ensures that those with mobility challenges can utilize public transit. However, the overall travel time using public transportation is generally longer than driving, potentially adding significant time to the commute. This difference in travel time impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

The **Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART)** also operates in the area, supplementing DDOT service. SMART provides regional bus service, connecting Dearborn Heights to surrounding communities and offering additional options for reaching healthcare facilities. The SMART routes may provide access to hospitals not directly served by DDOT. Again, the frequency and travel times of these routes are critical factors in determining their practical utility.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, have emerged as valuable transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times and providing a more convenient alternative to public transit, especially for those with mobility issues or undergoing treatment. The availability of these services, however, can vary depending on the time of day and demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer another layer of support. Companies like **CareRide** and **LogistiCare** specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility and providing a more comfortable and supportive experience. The Breast Cancer Score should consider the availability and accessibility of these specialized services.

The Breast Cancer Score for Dearborn Heights must incorporate several critical factors. The first is the proximity of medical facilities specializing in breast cancer care. The presence of hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers, offering diagnostic services, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is essential. The availability of specialized breast cancer clinics, providing expert care and support, is another crucial element.

The second factor is the accessibility of these facilities. This includes drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The Breast Cancer Score should consider the impact of traffic congestion on drive times, the frequency and accessibility of public transit routes, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The third factor is the cost of transportation. The financial burden of commuting to healthcare appointments can be significant, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment and experiencing financial hardship. The Breast Cancer Score should consider the cost of driving, public transit fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services.

Finally, the Breast Cancer Score must account for the availability of support services. This includes access to support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. The availability of these services can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to better health outcomes.

Moving to Dearborn Heights, or any community, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the transportation challenges and opportunities faced by residents. By considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing alternatives, and the availability of medical transportation services, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This comprehensive assessment is essential for ensuring that residents of Dearborn Heights have timely and convenient access to the care they need, ultimately improving their chances of successful treatment and recovery. This is particularly crucial for those facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.