48117, Carleton, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48117, Carleton, Michigan is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.42 percent of residents in 48117 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Monroe Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.92 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carleton, MI (ZIP Code 48117)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands immediate action. Early detection and treatment hinge on timely access to healthcare, a critical factor profoundly influenced by the transportation infrastructure surrounding Carleton, Michigan (ZIP code 48117). This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates the ease of access to essential medical services for residents, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking healthcare within and around this specific area.

The geographic reality of Carleton presents both advantages and disadvantages when considering healthcare access. Situated in Monroe County, the area benefits from proximity to larger urban centers like Ann Arbor and Detroit, offering specialized medical facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options necessitate a thorough examination of transportation variables. The Lung Cancer Score will assess these factors, providing a nuanced perspective for individuals considering moving to Carleton or seeking healthcare in the area.

For those with a personal vehicle, the primary artery connecting Carleton to the broader healthcare landscape is **US-24 (Telegraph Road)**. This major north-south thoroughfare offers direct access to hospitals and clinics in Monroe, as well as connections to **I-75**, a vital interstate highway. Driving to Monroe's healthcare facilities, such as ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, rush hour congestion on Telegraph Road can significantly extend this commute, potentially impacting the timely delivery of medical care.

Traveling north on **I-75** provides access to the more extensive healthcare resources of the Detroit metropolitan area. Reaching hospitals like Beaumont Hospital, Trenton, or Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, again depending on traffic. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals requiring regular treatments or facing emergencies. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, also plays a crucial role in determining travel times and safety.

Public transportation options in Carleton are limited. The **Monroe County Transportation Authority (MCTA)** offers bus services, but routes and frequency are restricted. While the MCTA provides some services within the immediate Carleton area, routes to major healthcare facilities are often indirect and time-consuming. The lack of frequent service and limited weekend schedules can significantly impede healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are available on MCTA buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall system's limitations pose a challenge for those reliant on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Carleton can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources. While ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, it's not a guaranteed solution for reliable transportation to healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedRide or American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journeys. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and pre-booking is often required, which necessitates careful planning.

The Lung Cancer Score must also consider the availability of specialized medical facilities. While general practitioners and urgent care clinics are available in the Carleton area, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapy centers may require travel to larger medical centers. This further emphasizes the importance of assessing transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The ability to quickly reach a specialist is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.

The impact of transportation challenges extends beyond the physical act of getting to appointments. The stress and anxiety associated with navigating complex transportation systems can negatively affect a patient's well-being and adherence to treatment plans. The Lung Cancer Score must account for these psychological factors, recognizing that ease of access contributes to a patient's overall experience and health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Carleton, this analysis highlights the importance of careful planning. Assessing the availability of reliable transportation options, considering the proximity to healthcare facilities, and understanding the potential challenges associated with public transit and ride-sharing are essential steps. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions about healthcare access.

The Lung Cancer Score for Carleton, MI (48117) reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from proximity to larger healthcare centers, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers alternative solutions, but these options may not be universally accessible or affordable.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Carleton, MI (48117) underscores the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers some advantages, the limited public transit and potential traffic delays on **US-24** and **I-75** pose challenges. Individuals considering moving to Carleton or seeking healthcare in the area must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly. The availability of ride-sharing, medical transport, and the potential for future improvements in public transit infrastructure will significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score and the overall healthcare experience for residents.