48152, Livonia, Michigan Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 48152, Livonia, Michigan is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.16 percent of residents in 48152 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Farmington Hills with a distance of 2.95 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Livonia, MI (ZIP Code 48152)**

Considering a move to Livonia, Michigan (ZIP code 48152), and concerned about lung cancer healthcare access? This assessment analyzes transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. Our "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates the ease and efficiency of reaching diagnostic and treatment centers, acknowledging the critical role of timely healthcare for lung cancer patients. This information is crucial for individuals and families navigating this challenging journey.

The foundation of our analysis is the understanding that effective transportation directly influences healthcare access. Delays or difficulties in reaching medical appointments can significantly impact patient outcomes. We'll explore driving routes, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive view of transportation realities within and around 48152.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For residents of 48152, the primary roadways facilitating access to healthcare facilities are I-96, I-275, and M-14. These highways offer varying degrees of accessibility, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the destination hospital.

Driving to Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills, a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating I-96 East. During off-peak hours, the drive is approximately 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly in the mornings and evenings, congestion can significantly extend this time, potentially doubling the travel duration. This variability highlights the importance of considering traffic patterns when planning medical appointments.

Alternatively, accessing Henry Ford Hospital in West Bloomfield Township often involves utilizing I-275 North. The drive, usually around 25-30 minutes, can be affected by traffic, especially near major intersections. The M-14 freeway provides access to the University of Michigan hospitals in Ann Arbor, a drive that can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Local roads like Middlebelt Road, Farmington Road, and Five Mile Road offer alternative routes, but these are often slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits. These roads can be useful for shorter trips within Livonia, but they may not be the most efficient options for reaching hospitals outside the city.

**Public Transit Options**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transportation services in the area. Several SMART bus routes serve the 48152 ZIP code, offering varying levels of access to healthcare facilities.

Route 28, for example, travels along Middlebelt Road, providing a direct link to Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills. This route offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The frequency of this route varies, with more frequent service during peak hours.

Route 78, which operates along Five Mile Road, also provides access to various medical facilities. However, the frequency of this route may be lower than others, potentially requiring longer wait times. Route 804, a limited-stop express service, offers a faster route to downtown Detroit, where additional medical facilities are located.

While SMART provides essential transportation, it's crucial to consider the limitations. Travel times can be significantly longer compared to driving, and the need to transfer between routes can add to the overall journey duration. Furthermore, the availability of service during evenings and weekends may be limited, which can pose challenges for accessing appointments outside of regular business hours.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Livonia, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to various healthcare facilities, offering flexibility in scheduling and eliminating the need for parking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained drivers, catering to individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance. These services can be particularly valuable for patients undergoing cancer treatment, providing a reliable and supportive transportation option. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

**Evaluating the Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 48152 is a nuanced assessment. The availability of multiple transportation options is a positive factor. The drive times to key hospitals are generally reasonable, particularly during off-peak hours. However, the potential for traffic congestion on major highways can significantly impact travel times, especially during rush hour.

Public transit offers an affordable alternative, but travel times can be longer, and service frequency may be limited. Ride-sharing provides convenience but can be costly. Medical transportation services offer specialized support but come with associated costs.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering a move to Livonia (48152) with lung cancer, healthcare access is manageable, but requires careful planning. The combination of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options provides flexibility. However, individuals must consider traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the costs associated with different transportation modes.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 48152 is favorable, but it emphasizes the importance of proactively planning transportation to medical appointments. Assessing the best mode of transportation, accounting for traffic conditions, and considering the availability of support services will be crucial for ensuring timely and efficient healthcare access. This proactive approach will contribute significantly to the well-being of those navigating the challenges of lung cancer treatment and recovery.