48135, Garden City, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48135, Garden City, Michigan is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.42 percent of residents in 48135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Wayne with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Garden City (ZIP Code 48135)

Considering a move to Garden City, Michigan (ZIP code 48135)? This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. The ability to reach specialized medical care swiftly and reliably is paramount in battling this disease. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" – a composite of drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services – tailored to the unique needs of a lung cancer patient.

The score reflects the relative ease with which a resident of 48135 can access key healthcare facilities. The higher the score, the better the access. We will consider the journey to hospitals known for their oncology departments.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Recovery**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to major hospitals in the Detroit metropolitan area is crucial. From Garden City, the primary arteries for travel are **I-96**, **I-275**, and **Ford Road**.

Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, a major cancer center, presents a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes via I-96 East, depending on traffic. Rush hour, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend this time. The route is generally straightforward, but congestion near the Lodge Freeway (M-10) interchange can be a bottleneck.

Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills, a well-regarded facility, is a shorter drive, typically 15-25 minutes via I-96 West. This route is generally less congested than the Detroit corridor, making it a potentially faster option. However, construction projects on I-96 are common and can introduce delays.

St. Mary Mercy Hospital Livonia, a closer option, is reachable in 10-15 minutes via **Middlebelt Road** or **Farmington Road**. This proximity is a significant advantage, offering quicker access for routine appointments and emergencies.

The drive time score considers the proximity of these hospitals, the reliability of the routes, and the potential for traffic delays. A higher score is awarded to locations with shorter, less congested routes.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

For individuals unable to drive, public transportation becomes a critical lifeline. The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provide bus services in the area.

From Garden City, SMART Route 16 (Middlebelt) offers a direct connection to the Livonia area, including access to St. Mary Mercy Hospital. This route operates with frequent service, but travel times can be longer than driving, typically 30-45 minutes.

DDOT does not directly serve Garden City, necessitating transfers to SMART routes. This adds to the travel time and complexity.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. SMART buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the ease of transferring between routes can vary.

The public transit score weighs the frequency of service, the travel time, the number of transfers required, and the ADA accessibility features. A higher score reflects a more convenient and accessible public transportation network.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving and public transit. These services are readily available in the Detroit metropolitan area, including Garden City. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedRide, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate mobility limitations. While these services offer convenience, they also come with a higher price tag.

The ride-share and medical transportation score considers the availability, cost, and convenience of these services. A higher score reflects a more affordable and accessible range of options.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite View**

The Lung Cancer Score for Garden City (48135) is a synthesis of the three categories: drive time, public transit, and ride-share/medical transportation. It is not a single number but a nuanced assessment.

Garden City benefits from relatively good drive times to several hospitals, particularly St. Mary Mercy Hospital. The public transit options, while available, are less direct and require longer travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer convenient alternatives, but at a higher cost.

**The Final Verdict: Healthcare Access in 48135**

For individuals capable of driving, Garden City offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities. The proximity to St. Mary Mercy Hospital is a significant advantage. However, those relying on public transit or alternative transportation may face longer travel times and higher costs.

When considering moving to Garden City, individuals with lung cancer or at high risk should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the proximity of their preferred healthcare providers. The availability of accessible and reliable transportation is a crucial factor in the quality of life and treatment outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score for 48135 is therefore, a solid "B". It is a good starting point, but careful planning and consideration of individual needs are essential for successful healthcare navigation.