48134, Flat Rock, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48134, Flat Rock, Michigan is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.14 percent of residents in 48134 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Trenton with a distance of 4.72 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Flat Rock (ZIP Code 48134)

Flat Rock, Michigan, a community nestled in the heart of Wayne County, presents a unique landscape for individuals seeking healthcare, particularly concerning the critical matter of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 48134, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering **moving to Flat Rock**. We will explore the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the medical landscape, focusing on the crucial aspects of timely and efficient access to care.

The ability to swiftly reach medical facilities is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment significantly improve patient outcomes. Delays in accessing care, whether due to geographical barriers or logistical hurdles, can have dire consequences. Our score considers these factors, examining the practicality of reaching hospitals and specialized clinics from various points within the ZIP code.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries facilitating **transportation** in and out of Flat Rock are I-75 and Telegraph Road (US-24). Accessing these major thoroughfares is generally straightforward, making travel to nearby cities like Taylor and Southgate relatively convenient. Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, is accessible via I-75, typically resulting in a drive-time of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The journey to Beaumont Hospital, Trenton, also utilizes I-75, with a similar drive-time profile. However, rush hour congestion, particularly on I-75, can significantly extend travel times, potentially adding 30 minutes or more to the commute. This variability underscores the importance of considering peak traffic when planning medical appointments.

For residents located in the more eastern sections of Flat Rock, access to Telegraph Road offers an alternative route to healthcare facilities. While this road can experience its own congestion, it often provides a more direct route to hospitals in the Downriver area, potentially bypassing the worst of I-75's traffic snarls.

Further afield, specialized cancer centers in Detroit, such as the Karmanos Cancer Institute, require longer drives, typically around 30-45 minutes, dependent on traffic. This necessitates careful planning, considering appointment schedules and potential delays. The journey often involves navigating I-75 or the Southfield Freeway (M-39), both known for their heavy traffic.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The availability of public **transportation** in Flat Rock is limited, posing a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The Detroit Department of **Transportation** (DDOT) does not directly serve Flat Rock. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional **Transportation** (SMART) offers some bus routes, but their coverage in the area is sparse.

The primary SMART route serving the vicinity is Route 125, which runs along Telegraph Road. While this route provides a connection to the broader regional network, it does not directly reach many key healthcare facilities. The frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can also be a limiting factor.

Furthermore, the lack of dedicated bus stops near many medical centers necessitates additional travel via ride-share or taxi services, adding to the overall **transportation** burden. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on SMART buses are available, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, but the limited route coverage remains a significant hurdle for many residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in Flat Rock, offering a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, can vary, and surge pricing during periods of high demand can significantly increase costs.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR), specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they often require advance booking and can be costly, particularly for frequent appointments.

The reliance on ride-share and medical **transportation** services highlights the challenges of **healthcare access** in Flat Rock for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The cost and availability of these services can create significant barriers to timely medical care.

**Overall Assessment and Implications for Moving to Flat Rock:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Flat Rock, 48134, reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to major highways offers relatively convenient access to some hospitals, the limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on potentially expensive ride-share and medical **transportation** services pose significant challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Flat Rock**, particularly those with existing or potential lung cancer concerns, careful consideration of **transportation** needs is essential. The availability of a personal vehicle is a significant advantage. If relying on public transit, the limited coverage of SMART routes necessitates careful planning and potential reliance on ride-share or medical **transportation** services.

The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Before **moving to Flat Rock**, prospective residents should research the locations of healthcare providers, estimate drive-times, and assess the availability and cost of alternative **transportation** options. Early engagement with healthcare providers to establish a care plan that considers **transportation** needs is also highly recommended.

Furthermore, community initiatives aimed at improving **healthcare access** in Flat Rock, such as expanding SMART route coverage or establishing partnerships with medical **transportation** providers, could significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhance the quality of life for all residents. The goal is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their **transportation** circumstances, have equitable access to the timely and effective care they deserve.