48220, Ferndale, Michigan Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 48220, Ferndale, Michigan is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.56 percent of residents in 48220 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield And Novi with a distance of 4.15 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 48220

The journey to manage hypertension in Detroit's 48220 ZIP code, a community straddling the border of Detroit and the welcoming city of Ferndale, demands careful consideration of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking to control their blood pressure in this area. It considers the interplay of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering insights for residents and those **moving to Ferndale**.

The 48220 ZIP code, while encompassing parts of Detroit, offers a unique blend of urban and suburban characteristics. This duality impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The proximity to Ferndale, known for its walkability and vibrant community, presents a contrasting picture to some areas within the Detroit portion of the ZIP code, where access to reliable **transportation** can be a significant hurdle.

**Driving the Arteries of Healthcare Access:**

For those with the means and ability to drive, navigating the roadways is often the most direct route to healthcare. The primary arteries serving 48220 include the major thoroughfares of Woodward Avenue, known as M-1, and Eight Mile Road.

Woodward Avenue, a historic corridor, offers access to a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. A trip to a specialist on Woodward Avenue might take 15 minutes on a good day, but could easily stretch to 30 minutes or more during rush hour.

Eight Mile Road, the northern boundary of Detroit, provides access to healthcare facilities both within and outside the city limits. The speed and efficiency of travel on Eight Mile Road are often dependent on the time of day and traffic conditions. A drive to a healthcare provider located a few miles away could take 10 to 20 minutes, but again, this is subject to the vagaries of Detroit traffic.

Smaller roads, such as Greenfield Road, Livernois Avenue, and Wyoming Avenue, offer alternative routes, but they are often subject to stop-and-go traffic and are less direct. The condition of these roads, with potholes and uneven surfaces, can also be a factor, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those concerned about the comfort of their ride.

**Public Transit: A Lifeline with Limitations:**

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides public transit services within the 48220 ZIP code. Several bus routes serve the area, including routes along Woodward Avenue, Eight Mile Road, and other major thoroughfares.

The routes that are most relevant for healthcare access include the Woodward Avenue route, which offers direct access to healthcare facilities along the corridor. The Eight Mile Road route provides access to facilities located along the boundary. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a challenge. Waiting times can be lengthy, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare locations.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. DDOT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the reliability of these features and the availability of accessible stops can vary. Individuals with mobility issues should verify the accessibility of specific routes and stops before relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public transit. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who do not own a car or who prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can provide door-to-door service, which is a significant advantage for those with mobility limitations. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, especially for frequent healthcare appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours can further increase costs.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR), cater specifically to individuals who require assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers. Medical transport services are often covered by insurance, but they may require pre-authorization and can be subject to scheduling limitations.

**The "Hypertension Score" Factors:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 48220 reflects the complex interplay of these factors. The score is not a single number, but rather a composite assessment based on several key considerations:

* **Drive Time Variability:** The unpredictable nature of Detroit traffic significantly impacts drive times to healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, accessibility, and coverage of DDOT routes influence the viability of public transit.
* **Ride-Sharing Affordability:** The cost of ride-sharing services can be a barrier for some individuals.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The availability and insurance coverage of medical transport services are crucial for those with mobility limitations.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The location of healthcare providers relative to residential areas is a key factor.

**Implications for Residents and Those Moving to Ferndale:**

For individuals with hypertension residing in or considering **moving to Ferndale** (or the Detroit portion of 48220), the "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of careful planning. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable **transportation**, and the ability to afford **transportation** options are all critical.

Those relying on public transit should research the specific routes and schedules that serve their healthcare providers. Individuals with mobility limitations should confirm the accessibility of both the buses and the healthcare facilities. Ride-sharing services can be a valuable option, but the cost should be factored into the budget. Medical transport services may be necessary for some individuals, and the process of securing coverage should be initiated well in advance of appointments.

The decision to **move to Ferndale** or reside in the Detroit portion of 48220 should include a thorough assessment of healthcare access. The proximity to Ferndale offers a potential advantage, as the city is known for its walkability and access to various services. However, even in Ferndale, individuals should carefully consider their **transportation** needs.

**Conclusion:**

Managing hypertension in 48220 requires a proactive approach to **transportation** and **healthcare access**. The "Hypertension Score" assessment underscores the need for individuals to evaluate their **transportation** options, consider the limitations of public transit, and explore ride-sharing and medical transport services. By carefully planning and understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents can navigate the complexities of healthcare access and effectively manage their hypertension. This is particularly important for those considering **moving to Ferndale**, where the quality of life is heavily influenced by the ease of accessing essential services.