48167, Northville, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48167, Northville, Michigan is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.17 percent of residents in 48167 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry Ford Health West Bloomfield Hospital with a distance of 10.15 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Northville (ZIP Code 48167)

The journey to breast cancer care in Northville, Michigan (ZIP Code 48167), is a multifaceted one, intricately woven with the threads of transportation and healthcare access. Understanding the practicalities of navigating this landscape is crucial for anyone considering moving to Northville or currently residing here, particularly those concerned about their health. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, detailing the available transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services.

Northville, a charming suburb nestled in the heart of Oakland County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, the accessibility of specialized healthcare, particularly for breast cancer treatment and screening, hinges on the efficiency and availability of transportation options. This score aims to illuminate the realities of this crucial aspect.

**Driving the Distance: The Road to Care**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option, however, is contingent on traffic conditions and the distances involved. Several major highways and roads serve Northville, providing access to hospitals and cancer centers in the surrounding areas.

The primary artery is **I-96**, a major east-west thoroughfare that connects Northville to Detroit and Ann Arbor. Traveling east on I-96 offers access to Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, a comprehensive cancer center. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Westbound on I-96 leads to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center in Ann Arbor, a journey of approximately 30-40 minutes, again, dependent on traffic flow.

**M-14**, another significant route, intersects with I-96, offering an alternative route to Ann Arbor. This route can be particularly beneficial during peak traffic hours on I-96. **Eight Mile Road**, a major east-west road, also serves as a crucial connector, providing access to various medical facilities along its corridor.

Navigating these roads during rush hour can significantly impact drive times, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute. The availability of ample parking at these facilities is another factor to consider, especially for those undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Northville are somewhat limited, posing a challenge for those who do not drive or prefer not to. The **Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART)** provides bus service in the area, though routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities.

**Route 460** is a potential option, connecting Northville to other areas within Oakland County. However, the route's schedule and frequency may not align with the needs of patients requiring regular appointments. Furthermore, the availability of **ADA-accessible** features on these buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Confirming the availability of these features is essential for those who require them.

The reliance on public transit can significantly increase travel time, potentially adding hours to the round trip. This factor can be particularly burdensome for patients undergoing treatment, who may already be experiencing physical and emotional strain.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing patients to schedule rides to and from appointments with relative ease. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, especially with frequent appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as **CareRide** and **Medicaid-approved transportation providers**, offer dedicated transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and ensuring patients arrive safely at their appointments. These services are particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may impact their ability to drive.

The availability and cost of these services are crucial factors in assessing healthcare access. Understanding insurance coverage for these options is also vital.

**The Breast Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Northville (ZIP Code 48167) is a complex evaluation, weighing the various transportation factors. While the area benefits from its proximity to major hospitals and cancer centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit introduce challenges.

The score considers the following elements:

* **Drive-time accessibility:** The ease and speed of reaching major cancer centers via highways and roads.
* **Public transit reliability:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of SMART bus routes.
* **Ride-sharing availability and cost:** The availability and affordability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical transport options:** The availability and insurance coverage of specialized medical transport services.
* **Traffic congestion:** The impact of rush hour traffic on commute times.
* **Parking availability:** The ease of finding parking at medical facilities.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Care**

Moving to Northville offers numerous advantages, including a high quality of life and access to excellent schools. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer care, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential.

While driving provides the most direct route to medical facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers valuable alternatives. Residents should investigate the availability of these resources and their insurance coverage.

For those reliant on public transit, the limited frequency and route coverage of SMART buses pose a challenge. Careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options are crucial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Northville highlights the importance of proactive planning. Understanding the available transportation options, their limitations, and their associated costs is vital for ensuring timely and convenient access to essential healthcare services. This information is especially pertinent for those considering moving to Northville or currently residing here, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing healthcare access when making decisions about their living environment.