48027, Goodells, Michigan Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 48027, Goodells, Michigan is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.89 percent of residents in 48027 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake Huron Medical Center with a distance of 12.38 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 48027

The journey to maintaining healthy blood pressure, a critical aspect of well-being, is often intertwined with the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare. This write-up, focusing on ZIP Code 48027, delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for residents, particularly those considering moving to Goodells, a community within this area. We will evaluate the available options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, reflecting the challenges and opportunities for managing hypertension in this specific geographical context.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 48027, especially for those needing regular check-ups or specialized care, is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area is relatively rural, with limited public transit options. The major arteries for vehicular travel are I-69, the primary east-west thoroughfare, and M-19, a north-south route. Access to I-69 is crucial for reaching larger medical centers located in Port Huron, Lapeer, and further afield in the Detroit metropolitan area.

Drive times, of course, fluctuate with traffic, weather, and time of day. A typical drive to McLaren Port Huron Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from Goodells can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic flow along I-69. Reaching Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, a more specialized facility, might require a drive of 60 to 90 minutes, factoring in potential congestion on I-69 and the I-94 corridor. These drive times, especially for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent monitoring or emergency care, can significantly impact the overall 'Hypertension Score'.

Public transportation options are limited in 48027. The Blue Water Area Transportation Commission (BWATC) provides some bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the city of Port Huron. There are no direct bus routes that run to Goodells. Accessing BWATC services from Goodells would likely require a drive to a designated pick-up point. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who are unable to drive or who prefer not to rely on personal vehicles. The absence of consistent and accessible public transportation directly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations, which is a crucial factor in our 'Hypertension Score' evaluation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability, especially in rural areas like Goodells, can be inconsistent. While ride-sharing offers a potential alternative to driving, the cost and wait times can be significant, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The availability of ride-sharing services is another factor influencing the 'Hypertension Score', as it provides a degree of flexibility but is not a guaranteed solution for healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs. The availability and accessibility of NEMT services are important components in the 'Hypertension Score' assessment, particularly for those who may need assistance with transportation.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of transportation options are also a crucial consideration. While BWATC buses are equipped with accessibility features, the limited route coverage and frequency pose challenges. Ride-sharing services offer varying levels of accessibility, depending on the vehicle and the driver. NEMT services, by their nature, are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. The availability of ADA-compliant transportation is a critical factor in ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents, which directly impacts the 'Hypertension Score'.

Considering the various transportation options, the 'Hypertension Score' for 48027 reflects a mixed picture. While the availability of personal vehicles offers a degree of autonomy, the reliance on driving, coupled with the limited public transit options, presents challenges. The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly for specialized care, can be significant. The availability of ride-sharing services is a potential benefit, but their reliability and cost are factors. The presence of NEMT services offers a valuable resource for those with mobility limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Goodells, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. Those who cannot drive or have limited mobility should carefully assess the availability and reliability of alternative transportation options, including NEMT services. Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of the decision-making process.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for 48027 reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation factors. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges for some residents. Understanding these challenges and proactively planning for healthcare transportation is crucial for effectively managing hypertension and maintaining overall well-being. The availability of specialized medical transportation and the accessibility of ADA-compliant services are important mitigating factors, but the overall score reflects the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in this rural community.