48094, Washington, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48094, Washington, Michigan is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.63 percent of residents in 48094 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital with a distance of 5.91 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 48094

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer, becomes a critical element of survival and well-being. In ZIP Code 48094, a community often associated with the suburban sprawl of Washington, this journey is shaped by various transportation options. Understanding these options, their limitations, and their impact on healthcare access is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Washington. This write-up provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment, focusing on transportation infrastructure and its influence on accessing vital medical services.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a medical metric but a measure of accessibility. It considers the ease with which individuals can reach specialized lung cancer treatment centers from their homes within 48094. This includes drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. Each factor contributes to a composite score, reflecting the overall accessibility of healthcare.

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in this area. Residents typically rely on major thoroughfares like I-94, I-696, and M-59. Access to these highways is generally good, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. For example, a trip to the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, a leading cancer center, could take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic conditions on I-94. Similarly, reaching hospitals in Troy or Royal Oak via I-75 or Woodward Avenue may involve navigating heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour.

The condition of local roads, such as Schoenherr Road, 23 Mile Road, and Hayes Road, also influences travel times. Potholes, construction, and general wear and tear can slow down travel and add to the stress of navigating to medical appointments. These factors can be particularly challenging for patients experiencing fatigue or other side effects of cancer treatment.

Public transportation offers an alternative, although its availability and efficiency are limited in this suburban setting. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides bus services in the area. Several routes, including those numbered 75, 85, and 801, connect 48094 to neighboring cities and medical facilities. However, these routes often have limited frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. SMART buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. Transferring between routes can also be difficult, adding to the complexity of the journey.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a more flexible transportation option. They offer on-demand service, allowing patients to schedule rides directly to their appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical visits. Availability can also be an issue, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver density.

Medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs. Companies like Medstar and First Transit offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are often covered by insurance, but booking in advance is usually required. While they offer a vital service, their availability may be limited, and waiting times can vary.

The Lung Cancer Score for 48094 is therefore a nuanced assessment. While the area benefits from relatively good highway access, reliance on personal vehicles can be problematic due to traffic. Public transit, while present, is limited in scope and frequency. Ride-sharing provides a flexible but potentially expensive option. Medical transportation services offer specialized support, but their availability may be constrained.

The overall score would likely be moderate, reflecting a mix of strengths and weaknesses in the transportation infrastructure. The score highlights the importance of careful planning, particularly for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Factors such as the location of treatment centers, the patient's physical condition, and their financial resources all play a role in determining the most suitable transportation option.

For those considering moving to Washington, specifically to 48094, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The ability to drive, access reliable public transit, or afford ride-sharing services will significantly impact their healthcare access.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare access. This includes advocating for increased public transit frequency, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting medical transportation providers. Investing in these areas will not only benefit lung cancer patients but also improve the overall quality of life for all residents of 48094.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for 48094 reveals a complex interplay of transportation options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The score emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, careful planning, and ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents. The journey to healthcare, for lung cancer patients and others, is a journey that demands thoughtful consideration of transportation realities.