48116, Brighton, Michigan Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 48116, Brighton, Michigan is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.62 percent of residents in 48116 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Va Ann Arbor Healthcare System with a distance of 15.88 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 48116**

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is crucial when considering a move. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 48116 (Brighton, Michigan), provides a “Hypertension Score,” a composite measure reflecting the accessibility of medical facilities for residents, considering transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension.

ZIP code 48116, encompassing the city of Brighton and surrounding areas, presents a unique transportation profile. Situated in Livingston County, it offers a blend of suburban and rural characteristics. This influences the types of transportation available and the distances residents must travel to reach healthcare providers. The “Hypertension Score” will reflect this complexity, offering a nuanced perspective on healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the efficiency of the road network. Major thoroughfares, including US-23, Grand River Avenue, and I-96, serve as the primary arteries for accessing medical care.

The primary healthcare hub for the area is the University of Michigan Health Brighton Center, located at 8000 Challis Road. Traveling from various points within 48116 to this center will be the benchmark for this assessment. The drive-time analysis will factor in peak and off-peak traffic conditions, considering factors such as rush hour congestion on US-23, which can significantly impact travel times.

Another crucial facility is the Ascension Brighton Hospital, located at 7500 Challis Road. Drive times to this facility will also be evaluated. The presence of these two major healthcare providers within the area is a positive factor, but the efficiency of the road network determines the actual accessibility.

Beyond these primary facilities, the analysis will consider drive times to specialized clinics and physician offices, which may be located further afield. This includes facilities in neighboring communities like Ann Arbor and Howell, accessible via I-96 and US-23, respectively. These longer drives can pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension, potentially impacting adherence to appointments and medication schedules.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 48116 are limited. The Livingston County Transportation (LCT) provides bus services, but the frequency and coverage are not extensive. Routes primarily serve the immediate Brighton area and offer connections to neighboring communities.

The LCT does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of this service is a positive aspect of the public transit system. However, the limited route network and infrequent service can make it challenging for residents to rely solely on public transit for healthcare appointments.

The LCT routes relevant to healthcare access would be those connecting residential areas to the University of Michigan Health Brighton Center and Ascension Brighton Hospital. The schedule and frequency of these routes will be analyzed to determine their practicality for regular medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 48116. These services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a car. The availability of these services can significantly improve healthcare access.

The cost of ride-sharing services, especially during peak hours, can be a barrier for some individuals. The analysis will consider the average cost of rides to healthcare facilities, factoring in potential subsidies or assistance programs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transport of Michigan offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport.

The analysis will evaluate the availability and cost of medical transport services in 48116. The coverage area and the ability to accommodate individuals with specific medical needs will be considered.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" will be calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Drive times will be weighted heavily, reflecting the reliance on personal vehicles. Public transit will be assigned a moderate weight, acknowledging its limitations. Ride-sharing and medical transport will receive a smaller weight, reflecting their role as supplementary options.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better healthcare accessibility. The score will also include a qualitative assessment, providing context and insights into the challenges and opportunities for residents of 48116.

**Moving to Brighton: Healthcare Accessibility Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Brighton (48116), understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable tool for assessing healthcare accessibility.

Individuals managing hypertension should carefully consider the following:

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** The location of the residence relative to the University of Michigan Health Brighton Center, Ascension Brighton Hospital, and other healthcare providers.
* **Transportation options:** The availability and reliability of personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Cost of transportation:** The financial implications of relying on various transportation modes.
* **Mobility limitations:** The need for ADA-accessible transportation options.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access in 48116. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a starting point for this assessment, offering a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare accessibility.