48174, Romulus, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48174, Romulus, Michigan is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.50 percent of residents in 48174 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Taylor with a distance of 3.22 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Romulus, MI (ZIP Code 48174)

Considering a move to Romulus, Michigan, ZIP code 48174? Beyond the allure of suburban living, it’s crucial to understand healthcare access, particularly for women concerned about breast cancer. This write-up provides a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, focusing on transportation options to facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment. We'll explore drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, painting a picture of what healthcare access looks like for residents.

The journey to quality breast cancer care in Romulus begins with understanding geographical realities. The city is strategically located near major roadways, a key factor in determining transportation options. The proximity to Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) also influences transportation infrastructure, although it doesn't directly translate into healthcare access. The most significant highways impacting healthcare access are I-94, I-275, and US-12 (Michigan Avenue).

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. Accessing comprehensive breast cancer care often involves traveling to hospitals and specialized clinics in neighboring cities. The drive to Beaumont Hospital, Wayne (20000 Vining Rd, Wayne, MI 48184) is approximately 15-20 minutes via I-94 East or US-12. This facility offers a range of services, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, and surgical oncology.

Henry Ford Hospital, located in Detroit (2799 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202), is another critical destination. The drive time from Romulus is around 30-45 minutes, primarily via I-94 East. This hospital is a major cancer center, providing advanced treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The travel time, while manageable, underscores the importance of considering traffic patterns, especially during peak hours.

The drive to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center in Ann Arbor (1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109) is roughly 45-60 minutes, predominantly via I-94 West. This center is renowned for its research and cutting-edge treatments. While offering exceptional care, the distance requires careful planning, particularly for frequent appointments.

Public transportation presents another option, though its efficacy varies. The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides limited bus service within Romulus and to nearby communities. However, these routes may not directly connect to major hospitals or cancer centers. Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) buses offer a more extensive network.

The SMART Route 125, operating along Michigan Avenue (US-12), offers a potential connection to Wayne and Detroit. This route could be useful for accessing Beaumont Hospital, Wayne, or connecting to other DDOT routes. However, the frequency of service and travel times should be carefully evaluated. The SMART Route 261, serving the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, provides another option, but it doesn’t directly link to major healthcare facilities.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. Both DDOT and SMART buses are mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility and priority seating. However, the availability of these features should be verified before relying on public transit. The longer travel times and potential transfers associated with public transportation can pose challenges for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative, especially for those without personal vehicles. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for parking and navigating complex routes. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. For regular appointments, the expense could become a significant factor.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or Medstar, specialize in transporting patients with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), providing a safe and comfortable way to travel to appointments. The cost is typically higher than ride-sharing but may be covered by insurance in certain situations.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Romulus, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderately positive. While the city benefits from its proximity to major highways and hospitals, challenges exist. The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services for many residents, coupled with the limitations of public transportation, can create barriers to timely care. The drive times to specialized cancer centers necessitate careful planning and consideration of traffic.

For individuals considering moving to Romulus, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. It’s important to research the specific healthcare providers and facilities that meet their individual needs. The availability of support networks, such as family and friends, can also significantly impact healthcare access.

The choice to move to Romulus involves weighing various factors. While the city offers a suburban lifestyle, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of proactively assessing healthcare access. This assessment is not intended to discourage a move but to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in this community.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the need for informed decision-making. Prospective residents should research healthcare options, explore transportation alternatives, and consider the impact of travel time on their overall well-being. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed choices that support their health and quality of life. The goal is to ensure that moving to Romulus provides not only a new home but also convenient access to the healthcare services needed for comprehensive breast cancer care.