48125, Dearborn Heights, Michigan Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 48125, Dearborn Heights, Michigan is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.03 percent of residents in 48125 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Dearborn with a distance of 2.72 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 48125

Considering a move to Dearborn Heights, Michigan, ZIP code 48125? This write-up explores the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the nuances of commute times, public transit options, and available medical transportation services is crucial for maintaining consistent care and optimizing your health. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, weighing factors vital for individuals requiring regular medical attention.

The ability to efficiently reach healthcare providers is paramount for managing hypertension. Consistent access to medication refills, routine check-ups, and specialist appointments is essential for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. This analysis delves into the practicalities of transportation within and around 48125, considering the impact on individuals seeking to improve their health.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for transportation in 48125 are Telegraph Road, Ford Road, and the Southfield Freeway (M-39). Drive times significantly impact healthcare access, especially during peak hours. Consider the location of your primary care physician and any specialists when assessing the suitability of a residence.

Traveling east on Ford Road can quickly lead to healthcare facilities in Dearborn, including Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn. However, traffic congestion, particularly near the Southfield Freeway and the I-94 interchange, can extend drive times considerably. Expect delays during rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Westward travel on Ford Road offers access to healthcare providers in Westland and Livonia. Telegraph Road provides north-south access, connecting to healthcare facilities in Taylor and Allen Park. The Southfield Freeway offers a more direct route to Detroit Medical Center facilities, though again, traffic is a significant factor.

The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the variability in drive times. A score will be lower (indicating greater difficulty) for locations with longer commutes, particularly during peak hours. Conversely, residences located near multiple healthcare providers and major roadways receive a higher score, reflecting easier access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides public transit services in 48125. However, the network is somewhat limited, and the frequency of service can be a significant barrier for those with hypertension.

Several DDOT bus routes serve the area, including routes that travel along Ford Road and Telegraph Road. These routes connect to major hospitals and medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, may not be sufficient for individuals requiring frequent appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. DDOT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating the system can still pose challenges.

The "Hypertension Score" weighs the limitations of public transit. Residences with easy access to frequent, reliable, and ADA-accessible bus routes receive a higher score. The score decreases for areas with limited service or longer travel times.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. They provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility than public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like Medstar Ambulance and American Medical Response, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Residences with easy access to these services receive a higher score. The score decreases for areas where these services are limited or expensive.

**Medical Facility Proximity:**

The location of healthcare facilities relative to your residence significantly impacts your "Hypertension Score." Proximity to a primary care physician, cardiologist, and other specialists is crucial for effective hypertension management.

Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, is a major healthcare provider within a relatively short drive for many residents of 48125. Henry Ford Hospital, in Detroit, is also accessible via the Southfield Freeway. The presence of pharmacies, urgent care clinics, and other healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity of your residence will also positively impact the score.

The "Hypertension Score" places a premium on proximity to healthcare providers. Residences located near a comprehensive network of medical facilities receive a higher score. The score decreases for areas with limited healthcare options or longer travel distances to medical facilities.

**Lifestyle Considerations:**

Beyond transportation and healthcare access, lifestyle factors influence hypertension management. Access to grocery stores with healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity (parks, gyms), and a supportive community are all essential.

The "Hypertension Score" incorporates these lifestyle factors. Residences located near grocery stores, parks, and community resources receive a higher score. The score decreases for areas with limited access to these resources.

**Calculating Your "Hypertension Score":**

The "Hypertension Score" is a multifaceted assessment that considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Measured in minutes to the nearest primary care physician and cardiologist, considering peak and off-peak travel times.
* **Public Transit Access:** Availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of bus routes.
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transportation:** Availability and affordability of these services.
* **Medical Facility Proximity:** Distance to primary care, cardiology, and other relevant specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Access to grocery stores, parks, and community resources.

Each factor is assigned a weighted value, and the overall score is calculated. A higher score indicates better healthcare access and a more favorable environment for managing hypertension.

**Moving to Dearborn Heights: A Personalized Approach:**

Choosing a residence in 48125 requires careful consideration of your individual needs. This "Hypertension Score" framework provides a starting point for evaluating the transportation and healthcare landscape.

Before making a move, it's essential to:

* Identify your preferred healthcare providers.
* Determine the frequency of your medical appointments.
* Assess your transportation needs and preferences.
* Research the availability and cost of transportation options.
* Visit potential residences and evaluate their proximity to healthcare facilities and essential services.

By taking a proactive approach and carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a residence that supports your health and well-being. The goal is to find a location that minimizes the barriers to healthcare access and empowers you to effectively manage your hypertension.