48079, Saint Clair, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48079, Saint Clair, Michigan is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.02 percent of residents in 48079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension River District Hospital with a distance of 4.08 miles from the area.

The journey to effective lung cancer care in ZIP Code 48079, encompassing the charming locale of Saint Clair, Michigan, demands a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. This assessment, the Lung Cancer Score, considers the critical elements of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It's a vital consideration for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, weighing treatment options, or contemplating a move to this scenic community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Saint Clair is the ability to reach essential medical facilities. Driving, a dominant mode of transportation, necessitates navigating the region's roadways. Residents typically utilize Interstate 94 (I-94), a major east-west artery, to reach hospitals and specialized cancer centers. From Saint Clair, a trip to McLaren Port Huron Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, is generally a manageable drive, usually taking around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which can be heavier during peak commuting hours.

Alternatively, the journey to Detroit, where numerous comprehensive cancer centers are located, such as the Karmanos Cancer Institute, involves a longer drive. This commute, primarily via I-94, could take anywhere from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 2 hours, again influenced by traffic congestion, especially near the city. Other significant roads, such as M-29 (River Road) and M-136, serve as local connectors, providing alternative routes, although these are often slower than the interstate.

Public transit, while present, presents limitations for residents of Saint Clair. The Blue Water Area Transportation Commission (BWATC) operates local bus services, but routes and frequency may not directly serve all medical facilities or offer convenient schedules for appointments. While the BWATC strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, the availability of specific routes and the time required for transfers could pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a supplementary transportation solution. However, their availability and cost can vary, particularly in less densely populated areas like Saint Clair. Dependability is crucial when attending medical appointments, and reliance on ride-sharing necessitates careful planning and advance booking to ensure timely arrival. The cost of frequent rides can also be a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services provide specialized assistance for individuals with specific needs. These services, including ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater to those who require assistance with mobility or medical monitoring during transit. While these services offer vital support, they are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical requirements and may incur significant costs.

The Lung Cancer Score for Saint Clair, therefore, considers the interplay of these transportation options. The primary factor is the drive time to essential healthcare providers. The proximity to McLaren Port Huron Hospital provides a relatively short commute, which is a significant advantage. However, the longer drive to Detroit-based cancer centers introduces complexities, including potential traffic delays and the need for careful planning.

The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services add further considerations. Individuals relying on public transit or ride-sharing must factor in longer travel times and potential scheduling challenges. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net for those with specific medical needs, but the associated costs must be acknowledged.

For individuals considering a move to Saint Clair, the Lung Cancer Score becomes an essential element in their decision-making process. Evaluating the transportation options to healthcare facilities is a vital component of ensuring access to timely and effective treatment. The proximity to McLaren Port Huron Hospital offers a degree of convenience, but the longer commutes to specialized cancer centers in Detroit require careful consideration.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Saint Clair, based on the factors outlined, reflects a mixed assessment. The shorter drive to McLaren Port Huron Hospital provides a positive aspect. However, the longer travel times to specialized cancer centers, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services introduce challenges.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a crucial tool for individuals navigating the complexities of healthcare access in Saint Clair. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the transportation landscape, planning for potential challenges, and exploring all available options to ensure timely and effective care. This is a critical consideration for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis or contemplating a move to the Saint Clair community.