48173, Rockwood, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48173, Rockwood, Michigan is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.05 percent of residents in 48173 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Trenton with a distance of 1.35 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rockwood, Michigan (ZIP Code 48173)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It extends far beyond the doctor's office, encompassing the intricate web of transportation options that connect patients to vital services. This analysis, tailored for residents of Rockwood, Michigan (ZIP Code 48173), explores the accessibility of breast cancer care, focusing on transportation infrastructure and its impact on timely healthcare access. Considering a move to Rockwood? This is essential information.

Rockwood, a community nestled in the heart of southeastern Michigan, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban centers. However, the availability and efficiency of transportation significantly influence the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare, including breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the landscape of transportation options, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking care in this area.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. In Rockwood, several major roadways facilitate access to healthcare facilities. Interstate 75 (I-75), a crucial north-south artery, provides a direct route to hospitals and cancer centers in Detroit and surrounding areas. The drive time to these facilities, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, particularly morning and evening commutes, congestion on I-75 can lead to extended travel times, potentially delaying critical appointments.

The scenic US-24, also known as Telegraph Road, offers an alternative route, though it's often slower due to traffic lights and local traffic. It provides access to various medical offices and clinics along its path. Local roads like Huron River Drive and Allen Road offer additional routes, but these are generally less direct and may be subject to delays. The drive time to hospitals in Trenton and Southgate is a consideration.

The drive to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center in Ann Arbor, a highly-regarded cancer treatment facility, necessitates navigating I-94, a major east-west highway. This trip, while longer in distance, offers a different set of challenges, including potential construction delays and heavy traffic during peak travel periods. The transportation choices here are crucial.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Rockwood are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle. The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides bus service in the broader metropolitan area, but service to Rockwood is infrequent and may require multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time.

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) offers some bus routes that serve areas near Rockwood, but these routes may not directly connect to major hospitals or cancer centers. The availability of accessible features, such as ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities (ADA compliance), is crucial for those with mobility limitations. Public transit, while offering a cost-effective alternative, may not be a reliable option for timely healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Costs**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient, albeit often expensive, alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. The availability of these services in Rockwood is generally good, but the cost of rides can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Rockwood considers the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score evaluates the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the cost and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the overall impact on patient outcomes.

The score also considers the availability of local healthcare resources, such as primary care physicians who can provide referrals for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. The presence of community health centers and mobile mammography units can also improve healthcare access for residents.

**Moving to Rockwood: Considering Transportation**

For individuals considering a move to Rockwood, the transportation landscape should be a primary consideration. The availability of a personal vehicle is a significant advantage. However, even with a car, residents should be prepared for potential delays due to traffic congestion.

Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the limitations of the available services. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services should also be factored into the decision-making process.

**Conclusion: Enhancing Healthcare Accessibility**

Improving healthcare access in Rockwood requires a multifaceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, expanding the availability of medical transport services, and promoting community awareness of available resources are all crucial steps.

The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting the critical role of transportation in ensuring timely access to essential healthcare services. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, the community can work together to create a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for all residents of Rockwood.