48044, Macomb, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48044, Macomb, Michigan is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.30 percent of residents in 48044 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry Ford Macomb Hospital with a distance of 2.51 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 48044

The journey to healthcare, especially for individuals grappling with the complexities of lung cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. In ZIP Code 48044, encompassing parts of Clinton Township, Michigan, the "Lung Cancer Score" considers the accessibility of essential medical services, factoring in the crucial element of **transportation**. This score provides a nuanced understanding of the ease with which residents can reach diagnostic centers, treatment facilities, and supportive care, particularly vital for those facing the demanding realities of lung cancer.

For residents of 48044, the primary artery for **transportation** is Interstate 94 (I-94), a major east-west thoroughfare. Access to the freeway is relatively straightforward, with several on-ramps providing convenient entry points. However, peak traffic hours can significantly impact drive times, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. This congestion directly affects **healthcare access**, potentially delaying appointments and adding stress for patients.

Moving south on I-94, the journey to major medical centers like Henry Ford Macomb Hospital in Clinton Township and Beaumont Hospital, Troy, becomes a manageable drive. The average drive time to Henry Ford Macomb, a critical facility for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Beaumont Hospital, Troy, offers specialized oncology services and may take approximately 20 to 30 minutes. These drive times are crucial, as prompt medical attention is paramount in lung cancer care.

Further complicating the equation are local roads. Gratiot Avenue, a heavily trafficked north-south road, offers an alternative route, but it is often congested, especially during rush hour. Traveling east-west, 19 Mile Road and 21 Mile Road serve as key connectors, but they too can experience delays. These variations in drive times underscore the need for patients to plan their journeys meticulously, accounting for potential traffic bottlenecks.

Public transit options within 48044 are limited, impacting **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides bus service, but the frequency of routes and the geographic coverage are not always ideal for timely medical appointments. Route 560, for instance, travels along Gratiot Avenue, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities, but its schedule may not align with all appointment times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for patients with mobility limitations.

The lack of extensive public transit makes ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft crucial. These services provide on-demand **transportation**, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for patients with limited financial resources. The availability of ride-sharing services also depends on the time of day and the demand in the area, which could lead to delays.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require prior scheduling and may be subject to eligibility requirements. While they offer a vital lifeline, their availability and scheduling limitations should be considered.

The impact of these **transportation** factors on the "Lung Cancer Score" in 48044 is significant. The score would be negatively affected by the limited public transit, the potential for traffic delays on major roads, and the cost of ride-sharing. Conversely, the presence of readily accessible medical facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the existence of medical **transportation** options would positively influence the score.

Considering the challenges, patients must proactively plan their **transportation** to medical appointments. This may involve exploring various options, including carpooling with family or friends, utilizing ride-sharing services, or coordinating with medical **transportation** providers. For those considering **moving to Macomb**, specifically 48044, the proximity to healthcare facilities, while important, should be weighed against the potential **transportation** challenges.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 48044 emphasizes the need for comprehensive **healthcare access**. It highlights the importance of efficient **transportation** systems, the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and the provision of medical **transportation** options. Addressing these factors is crucial to ensuring that residents of 48044, particularly those facing lung cancer, can access the timely and quality medical care they need.

The score also underscores the need for community initiatives aimed at improving **transportation** options. This might include advocating for increased public transit routes, promoting carpooling programs, or supporting initiatives that provide financial assistance for **transportation** to medical appointments. The goal is to create a **transportation** ecosystem that supports the needs of all residents, especially those vulnerable to the challenges of lung cancer.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of **healthcare access** in 48044. It provides a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of existing **transportation** systems and identifying areas where improvements are needed. By addressing the **transportation** barriers, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents have equal access to the life-saving care they deserve.