48135, Garden City, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48135, Garden City, Michigan is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.42 percent of residents in 48135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Wayne with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 48135

The decision to move, especially to a new community like Garden City, Michigan (ZIP Code 48135), often involves a complex web of considerations. For individuals and families, one of the most critical factors is healthcare access, and within that, the availability of specialized care, such as breast cancer treatment. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for 48135, considering transportation options to nearby facilities, a crucial element in the overall healthcare landscape.

Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount. A high "Breast Cancer Score" reflects ease of access to comprehensive breast cancer care, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport options. Conversely, a lower score indicates potential challenges in reaching essential appointments, tests, and treatments. This assessment is not a definitive medical guide, but rather a practical overview to assist in informed decision-making, especially for those contemplating a move to Garden City.

The heart of this evaluation lies in the transportation infrastructure. Garden City's location, nestled in Wayne County, offers a mix of options, each with its own advantages and limitations. For those with personal vehicles, the primary arteries are essential to consider. The major thoroughfare is I-96, offering relatively swift access to Detroit and its medical centers. However, rush hour traffic can significantly impact travel times, particularly during peak commute hours.

Another vital route is Ford Road, a busy east-west thoroughfare that provides access to various medical facilities. The accessibility of these roads impacts the overall "Breast Cancer Score," as they directly influence drive times to crucial healthcare providers. Furthermore, the condition of the roads, including potential for delays due to construction or accidents, must be factored into the equation.

Drive times are critical. For this assessment, we'll focus on the most common destinations for breast cancer care, including major hospitals and specialized clinics. From the center of Garden City, a drive to Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills, via I-96, can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, accessible via I-96, is another significant option. The drive time, typically 25-40 minutes, can be longer during peak hours. Henry Ford offers a renowned cancer institute with a wide range of treatment options. The University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center in Ann Arbor, while further afield (approximately 45-60 minutes via I-96 and M-14), is another option, offering cutting-edge research and treatment.

Public transportation provides an alternative, though with limitations. The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) operates bus routes in the area. However, direct routes from Garden City to major hospitals are limited. Riders would likely need to transfer, increasing travel time significantly. The SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) bus system offers routes that connect Garden City to surrounding areas, but again, direct access to cancer centers may require multiple transfers.

For individuals with disabilities, ADA-compliant features on buses are essential. DDOT and SMART buses are equipped with ramps and other accommodations. However, navigating multiple bus routes and transfers can be challenging for those undergoing cancer treatment, which can be physically demanding. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the limitations of public transit, recognizing that it may not be a practical option for all patients.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. Availability in Garden City is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can impact costs. The reliability of these services is a factor, as patients need dependable transportation for appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges the convenience of ride-sharing but also considers the potential for increased expenses.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients needing assistance. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing but offer a higher level of support and are designed to meet the needs of patients with mobility issues. The "Breast Cancer Score" recognizes the value of these specialized services for those who require them.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also takes into account the availability of local resources. While Garden City itself may not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to major medical facilities in surrounding communities significantly improves the score. The presence of primary care physicians and specialists within Garden City is also a factor, as they can provide initial screenings and referrals.

For those moving to Garden City, understanding the healthcare landscape is vital. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer care. While drive times to major hospitals are generally reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit are factors to consider. Ride-share services and medical transport offer alternative options, but at a cost.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for 48135 is moderately positive. The proximity to major medical centers, particularly Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills, and Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, provides access to comprehensive care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning. Individuals considering a move to Garden City should assess their transportation needs and factor in the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a tool to inform decision-making. It highlights the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access. Moving to Garden City can be a positive experience, but understanding the healthcare landscape, including transportation options, is crucial for ensuring access to essential medical care. The evaluation emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration of all available resources to ensure the best possible healthcare outcomes.