48017, Clawson, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48017, Clawson, Michigan is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.71 percent of residents in 48017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak with a distance of 2.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clawson, MI (ZIP Code 48017)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Clawson, Michigan (ZIP Code 48017), focusing on their ability to access healthcare. The score considers the ease and efficiency of transportation options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Clawson, as it significantly impacts their overall well-being and quality of life.

Clawson, a charming Oakland County city, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. While the city itself is relatively small, its proximity to larger urban centers like Royal Oak and Troy, along with the presence of major roadways, influences the accessibility of medical services. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for Clawson residents.

**Drive Time and Roadway Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Clawson is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The city's location, nestled within a network of well-maintained roads, offers relatively convenient access to various medical facilities. The strategic positioning of major thoroughfares plays a crucial role in determining drive times.

The primary artery for navigating Clawson and connecting it to surrounding areas is **Main Street**, which runs north-south through the heart of the city. This road provides direct access to local businesses and connects to major east-west routes like **14 Mile Road** and **14 Mile Road**. These roads, in turn, offer access to a wider network of medical providers.

For those seeking specialized care or facilities located further afield, **I-75** (the Chrysler Freeway) provides a vital link. Accessing I-75 from Clawson typically involves navigating local streets to reach an on-ramp, usually via 14 Mile Road. This highway facilitates quick travel to major hospitals and medical centers in Detroit and its northern suburbs.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are generally favorable for Clawson residents. Local urgent care clinics and primary care physicians are often reachable within a 5-10 minute drive. Hospitals like Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, located a short distance south, are typically accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Further afield, Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit is accessible within a 25-30 minute drive, though traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

While personal vehicles are the dominant mode of transportation, public transit options exist for Clawson residents, offering an alternative for those who do not drive or prefer not to. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides bus service throughout Oakland County, including Clawson.

Several SMART bus routes serve Clawson, including routes **460** and **450**. These routes provide connections to neighboring cities and key destinations, including hospitals and medical offices. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage within Clawson may be limited, potentially requiring longer travel times and transfers.

The accessibility of public transit is further enhanced by the presence of ADA-compliant features on SMART buses. These features, including ramps and designated seating areas, ensure that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit for healthcare access remain a consideration for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative for Clawson residents seeking healthcare. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments and facilities, offering convenience and flexibility. The availability of ride-sharing services in Clawson is generally reliable, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to a short duration.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several options are available. Medical transport services cater to patients with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. These services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

Medical transport brands like **MedStar Ambulance** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** operate in the area, providing emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. Other local providers may also be available, offering specialized services tailored to individual needs. The availability and cost of medical transport services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Clawson is influenced by several factors. While the city benefits from its proximity to major roadways and a network of medical facilities, challenges remain. The reliance on personal vehicles, potential traffic congestion, and the limited availability of public transit can create barriers for some residents.

Individuals considering moving to Clawson should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. However, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional alternatives.

The location of specific healthcare providers, including hospitals, specialists, and urgent care clinics, should also be considered. Proximity to these facilities can significantly impact drive times and overall convenience.

**Conclusion:**

Clawson offers a reasonable level of healthcare access for its residents. Drive times to local medical facilities are generally favorable, and the presence of major roadways facilitates travel to hospitals and specialist care in surrounding areas. Public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options provide alternative transportation solutions.

However, potential challenges remain, including traffic congestion, limited public transit frequency, and the reliance on personal vehicles. Individuals considering moving to Clawson should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements, considering the various factors discussed in this analysis. By understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access options, residents can make informed decisions that promote their overall health and well-being. The city's location and infrastructure offer advantages, but careful planning and awareness of available resources are crucial for ensuring convenient and efficient access to healthcare.