48128, Dearborn, Michigan COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 48128, Dearborn, Michigan is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.81 percent of residents in 48128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garden City Hospital with a distance of 2.60 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dearborn (ZIP Code 48128)

The air hangs heavy, a constant companion for those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In Dearborn, Michigan (ZIP Code 48128), the challenge of managing this respiratory illness extends beyond the confines of one’s home. It permeates the very fabric of daily life, particularly the crucial aspect of **transportation** to **healthcare access**. This write-up, a "COPD Score" of sorts, examines the complexities of getting to medical appointments within this specific ZIP code, offering insights for current residents and those considering **moving to Dearborn**.

The primary concern for COPD sufferers is consistent access to medical care. Regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency visits demand reliable **transportation**. The **COPD Score** considers the feasibility of various modes, factoring in travel times, accessibility, and the physical limitations imposed by the disease. We will delve into the landscape, assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each option.

For those with the means and the physical capacity, personal vehicles offer the most flexibility. The primary thoroughfare through 48128 is the iconic Ford Freeway, also known as I-94. This major artery provides relatively quick access to several hospitals and clinics. However, during peak hours, the freeway transforms into a parking lot, increasing travel times and potentially exacerbating breathing difficulties due to stress and exhaust fumes. Other key roads include Michigan Avenue, a bustling commercial corridor, and Southfield Freeway (M-39), which offers another route to medical facilities, but also experiences heavy traffic.

Navigating these roads requires careful planning. Patients must consider not only the distance but also the potential for traffic delays. The presence of numerous traffic lights along Michigan Avenue and the frequent construction projects can add significant time to a journey. For those with limited mobility, parking can also pose a challenge, especially near busy medical centers.

Public **transportation** in Dearborn presents a different set of considerations. The Detroit Department of **Transportation** (DDOT) operates several bus routes serving 48128. Route 16, for example, travels along Michigan Avenue, providing access to some clinics and hospitals. Route 60, which runs along Schaefer Road, offers another option. However, the frequency of these buses can be a major drawback. Waiting times, particularly during off-peak hours, can be lengthy, increasing the risk of exposure to environmental irritants.

Furthermore, while DDOT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features like ramps and designated seating, the overall experience can be challenging for COPD patients. The crowded conditions, the potential for exposure to allergens, and the physical exertion required to navigate the bus can be detrimental.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more convenient alternative to public **transportation**. These services provide door-to-door service and allow patients to schedule rides in advance. However, the cost can be a significant barrier, especially for those on fixed incomes. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand, can also be a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide another option. These services, such as MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR), offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While they provide a higher level of care and support, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing services and often require advance booking.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 48128 includes several hospitals and clinics. Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, is a major medical center located within the ZIP code. Henry Ford Medical Center – Fairlane and Oakwood Hospital – Taylor are also within reasonable driving distance. Numerous smaller clinics and specialty practices are scattered throughout the area, offering a range of services. However, the proximity of a medical facility does not guarantee easy access.

The **COPD Score** for 48128, therefore, is nuanced. While the area offers a reasonable number of **healthcare** providers, the challenges of **transportation** significantly impact **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create barriers for COPD patients.

For those considering **moving to Dearborn**, it is crucial to factor in these **transportation** challenges. Individuals with COPD should carefully assess their ability to navigate the roads, utilize public **transportation**, or afford ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services. Choosing a residence close to a hospital or clinic, or within easy reach of a reliable **transportation** option, is essential.

The **COPD Score** for 48128 is not a simple number. It is a complex evaluation of the interplay between health, **transportation**, and **healthcare access**. It highlights the need for careful planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to managing the challenges of living with COPD in this community. The ability to secure reliable and accessible **transportation** is paramount to maintaining quality of life and ensuring consistent access to life-saving medical care.