48082, Saint Clair Shores, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48082, Saint Clair Shores, Michigan is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.56 percent of residents in 48082 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mclaren Macomb with a distance of 4.15 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 48082

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a crucial component of patient well-being. This write-up examines the landscape of healthcare access within ZIP code 48082, Saint Clair Shores, Michigan, focusing on transportation options and their potential impact on individuals facing this challenging disease. We’ll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive perspective for anyone considering a move to this community or seeking to understand the resources available.

The very essence of healthcare access is intertwined with the ability to reach medical facilities. For residents of 48082, this primarily involves navigating the roadways. The primary artery is **I-94**, a major east-west interstate that provides swift access to Detroit and surrounding areas. Depending on the destination and time of day, drive times on I-94 can fluctuate significantly. Rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can dramatically increase travel times.

**Jefferson Avenue**, a key north-south thoroughfare, offers another route. While it provides access to local businesses and medical offices, it can be congested, especially during peak hours. **Harper Avenue** and **10 Mile Road** serve as alternative routes, offering access to various medical facilities, though they are often slower due to traffic lights and local traffic. Residents considering a move to Saint Clair Shores should factor in these potential delays when planning appointments or treatments.

Public transportation, while available, presents a different set of considerations. The **Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT)** operates bus routes that serve the area. However, the frequency of service and the directness of routes can vary. Route 60, for example, runs along Jefferson Avenue, offering a connection to downtown Detroit, where many specialized medical facilities are located. Route 61 offers service on 10 Mile Road, providing another option for accessing healthcare.

For individuals with mobility limitations, the **Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)** accessibility of these routes is paramount. DDOT strives to provide accessible buses and facilities, but it is essential to confirm specific ADA features and services, such as wheelchair lifts and audio-visual announcements, to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Understanding the limitations of public transit is crucial for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue or other side effects.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing patients to schedule rides to and from appointments. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. Patients should factor in potential surge pricing and ensure they have a reliable way to secure a ride, especially for regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to the needs of patients requiring assistance with mobility. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their medical condition. Exploring these options is vital for those facing lung cancer, as they can provide a crucial lifeline to healthcare.

The distance to specialized cancer centers is a significant factor. While Saint Clair Shores offers local medical facilities, more specialized care may require travel to Detroit or other surrounding areas. **Henry Ford Hospital**, the **Karmanos Cancer Institute**, and **Beaumont Hospital** are among the major healthcare providers in the region, offering comprehensive cancer care. The drive times to these facilities can range from 20 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond mere convenience. For patients undergoing lung cancer treatment, the ability to reach appointments reliably is critical. Missed appointments can lead to delays in treatment, potentially impacting outcomes. The stress of navigating traffic or dealing with unreliable transportation can also exacerbate the emotional and physical toll of the disease.

Moving to Saint Clair Shores, therefore, requires a careful consideration of transportation options. The proximity to major highways like I-94 offers a degree of flexibility, but reliance on a personal vehicle might not be feasible for everyone. Public transit provides an alternative, but its limitations must be acknowledged. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services can fill the gaps, but their availability and cost should be carefully evaluated.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not a quantifiable metric, but a holistic assessment of the transportation landscape. It considers the interplay of drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. For residents of 48082, this score is influenced by the proximity to major highways, the presence of DDOT bus routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the ability to successfully navigate the healthcare system is a critical component of patient well-being. Understanding the transportation options available in 48082, including the potential challenges and the available resources, is essential for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Careful planning, proactive research, and a willingness to explore all available options are crucial for ensuring timely access to care and supporting a positive health outcome. The goal is to reduce the barriers to care and empower individuals to focus on their treatment and recovery.