48067, Royal Oak, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48067, Royal Oak, Michigan is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.84 percent of residents in 48067 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak with a distance of 3.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Royal Oak (ZIP Code 48067)

Royal Oak, Michigan, a vibrant city in Oakland County, offers a compelling blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, making it an attractive destination for many. However, before making the move, prospective residents should carefully consider the crucial aspect of healthcare access, especially regarding the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 48067, considering various transportation options and their impact on accessing healthcare.

The score reflects the ease of reaching medical providers, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. A higher score signifies better access, implying shorter travel times, more convenient options, and greater overall ease in obtaining necessary medical care. This is a vital consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Royal Oak, ensuring their health needs can be met efficiently and effectively.

**Driving and Road Infrastructure:**

Royal Oak's road network is generally well-maintained, but congestion can be a significant factor, particularly during peak hours. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities include I-75 (the Chrysler Freeway), Woodward Avenue, and 14 Mile Road. Residents can utilize these highways and roads to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers.

Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. For instance, reaching Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, a major healthcare provider, from different parts of the ZIP code can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, significantly impacting the "Overall Health Score."

Woodward Avenue, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers direct access to numerous medical offices and facilities. While it provides convenient access, it's often heavily congested, especially around the downtown area. 14 Mile Road, running east-west, provides another critical route, connecting to various medical facilities and offering alternative routes to avoid traffic bottlenecks.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag:**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transit options in Royal Oak. Several bus routes serve the area, including routes 450, 461, and 751, connecting Royal Oak to surrounding communities and healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor in the "Overall Health Score." SMART buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can be a concern for those requiring specialized assistance.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative to driving, may not be the most efficient option for accessing healthcare, especially for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs. The reliance on bus schedules and potential for delays can negatively impact the "Overall Health Score."

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Royal Oak, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, potentially reducing travel times and improving the "Overall Health Score" for those who don't own a car or prefer not to drive.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and American Medical Response, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. While these options can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, they provide a valuable service, particularly for those with specific medical needs.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, is the primary healthcare provider in the area. It offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and various outpatient clinics. Its central location and accessibility via major roads make it a key factor in the "Overall Health Score" for residents of 48067.

Other healthcare facilities, such as Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield, and various specialized clinics, are within a reasonable driving distance. The proximity of these facilities, along with the availability of diverse transportation options, contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score."

**Impact on the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 48067 is moderately positive. The presence of major healthcare providers like Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, combined with the availability of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options, offers reasonable access to medical care.

However, the score is somewhat tempered by the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when assessing the impact of transportation on their healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Royal Oak (ZIP code 48067) offers a desirable lifestyle, but prospective residents must understand the nuances of healthcare access. While the road infrastructure is generally good, traffic congestion can be a deterrent. Public transit provides an alternative, but its limitations must be acknowledged. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer convenient options, but their cost should be factored in.

The "Overall Health Score" for Royal Oak is good, but not perfect. It is essential to evaluate personal transportation needs, potential healthcare requirements, and the various transportation options available to make an informed decision. By understanding these factors, residents can ensure they have adequate access to healthcare, contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life in this vibrant community.