48017, Clawson, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48017, Clawson, Michigan is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.71 percent of residents in 48017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry Ford Macomb Hospital with a distance of 10.94 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clawson, Michigan (ZIP Code 48017)

The air hangs heavy with the weight of a diagnosis. Lung cancer, a formidable foe, demands immediate and comprehensive care. For residents of Clawson, Michigan (ZIP Code 48017), the journey to that care is a critical factor, a silent variable influencing treatment outcomes and quality of life. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community, focusing on the vital element of *transportation* and its impact on *healthcare access*. Considering a move to Clawson? This analysis offers crucial insights.

Clawson, a charming suburb nestled in Oakland County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the city itself boasts a close-knit community and a generally healthy lifestyle, the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment is not directly within its borders. This necessitates careful consideration of how residents can reach the necessary medical facilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the ease and efficiency with which individuals can access these vital resources.

The primary mode of transportation for most Clawson residents is the automobile. The city's location, conveniently positioned near major thoroughfares, offers relatively straightforward routes to hospitals and cancer centers. Interstate 75 (I-75), a major north-south artery, provides direct access to Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, a leading cancer treatment facility. The drive, typically taking 10-15 minutes in non-peak traffic, represents a relatively favorable score component.

However, the reality of metropolitan life introduces complexities. Rush hour traffic, particularly on I-75, can significantly extend travel times. The same journey could balloon to 30-45 minutes, transforming a routine trip into a stressful ordeal, particularly for patients experiencing the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment. Woodward Avenue (M-1), another critical route, offers an alternative, albeit often congested, path to the same destinations.

Beyond the automobile, public *transportation* options exist, though their impact on the "Lung Cancer Score" is more nuanced. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides bus service within the region. Route 461, for example, offers service along 14 Mile Road, a major east-west thoroughfare through Clawson. This route connects to other SMART lines and the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) system, theoretically providing access to a wider network of hospitals and clinics.

However, the practicality of relying solely on public transit for cancer treatment is questionable. Bus schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be infrequent. The travel times, compared to driving, are considerably longer. While SMART buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, the overall system may not be ideal for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other debilitating side effects.

The accessibility of public transit to specific cancer centers is also a factor. While SMART provides a network, direct routes to specialized cancer treatment facilities might require multiple transfers, further extending travel times and increasing the burden on patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" must acknowledge these limitations, especially for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another *transportation* alternative. These services provide on-demand *transportation*, potentially mitigating the challenges of public transit and the limitations of driving. However, the cost of frequent rides can be a significant financial burden, particularly for patients facing the costs of treatment, medication, and other cancer-related expenses. The availability of ride-sharing services also varies depending on the time of day and the demand in the area, introducing an element of uncertainty.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent another option. Companies like MedStar and others provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can offer a more comfortable and reliable option for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, further impacting the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the location of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being. While some of these services may be available within Clawson, others may require travel to neighboring communities. The proximity of these services, and the *transportation* options available to access them, are crucial components of the score.

For those *moving to Clawson*, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical indicator of *healthcare access*. While the city itself offers a desirable quality of life, the availability of specialized cancer care is primarily located outside its boundaries. The score reflects the need for careful consideration of *transportation* options, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each mode.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Clawson, Michigan (ZIP Code 48017) is, therefore, a complex equation. While the proximity to major highways like I-75 offers relatively efficient access to leading cancer centers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical *transportation* services all contribute to the overall assessment.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Clawson highlights the importance of proactive planning. Patients and their families must carefully evaluate their *transportation* needs, considering their individual circumstances, financial resources, and the specific requirements of their treatment plan. Understanding the available options, and their associated costs and limitations, is essential for ensuring timely access to the vital care needed to combat this formidable disease.