48025, Franklin, Michigan Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 48025, Franklin, Michigan is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.28 percent of residents in 48025 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak with a distance of 3.92 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 48025

The journey to effective hypertension management in ZIP Code 48025, a vibrant community often considered when **moving to Franklin**, hinges significantly on **transportation** options. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examines the accessibility of healthcare providers specializing in hypertension, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services. The goal is to illuminate the practical realities of **healthcare access** for residents managing this chronic condition.

Franklin, Michigan, nestled within 48025, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. However, the ease with which residents can reach vital healthcare services, particularly for a condition like hypertension, is a crucial factor in overall well-being. This score considers the practical challenges of getting to appointments, refilling prescriptions, and accessing specialized care.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

For those who prefer the independence of driving, the major arteries in and around 48025 dictate the commute. The primary thoroughfare, US-24 (Telegraph Road), offers a direct north-south route. However, during peak hours, this road can become congested, adding significant time to travel. A trip to Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, a common destination for specialized care, could take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Another option is I-696, a vital east-west freeway. While offering a faster route, it too is susceptible to rush-hour delays. Accessing specialists in Detroit, a frequent need for complex cases, could involve navigating I-696 to I-75. This journey, typically 30-60 minutes, can easily stretch longer.

Smaller, local roads, such as 14 Mile Road and Orchard Lake Road, provide alternative routes. However, these roads are often slower, with numerous traffic lights and residential intersections. The practicality of these routes diminishes significantly when considering the urgency of a potential health crisis.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transit options in 48025, while available, present limitations. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides bus service. Route 740, for instance, runs along Telegraph Road, offering a connection to other routes and destinations. However, bus frequency can be a concern, and direct routes to specialized care facilities are often unavailable.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. SMART buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the overall travel time on public transit can be considerably longer than driving, potentially adding stress for individuals with hypertension. Transfers between routes can also be challenging.

The limited reach of public transit can create a barrier for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. Reliance on public transit may necessitate longer travel times, increasing the potential for missed appointments and delaying access to necessary care.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, especially for those without personal vehicles. These services provide on-demand transportation, often reducing travel time compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as MedRide and First Transit, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, making them ideal for those requiring assistance. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability.

The cost of these services, coupled with potential wait times, must be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access. While providing valuable options, they are not always readily available or affordable for all residents.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic View**

The "Hypertension Score" for 48025, therefore, is not simply a calculation of distance. It's a holistic assessment of the practical challenges and available resources for residents managing hypertension. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time Variability:** The impact of traffic on commute times, particularly during peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA features of SMART bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The cost, reliability, and accessibility of these services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** The distance to primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies.

This score acknowledges the importance of timely access to care, including routine check-ups, medication refills, and emergency services.

**Implications for Moving to Franklin**

For individuals considering **moving to Franklin** and managing hypertension, understanding this "Hypertension Score" is essential. It underscores the importance of considering transportation options when choosing a residence. Proximity to major roadways, access to public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services all impact the ease of accessing healthcare.

Furthermore, the score highlights the need for proactive planning. Residents should research local healthcare providers, familiarize themselves with transportation options, and establish backup plans for emergencies.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Access**

The "Hypertension Score" for 48025 reveals a landscape where healthcare access, while present, is not without its challenges. Improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing options, and increasing the availability of medical transport services would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents managing hypertension. Ultimately, a community that prioritizes accessible healthcare ensures the well-being of all its members.