48076, Southfield, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48076, Southfield, Michigan is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.88 percent of residents in 48076 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield And Novi with a distance of 2.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 48076 (Southfield, Michigan)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital services, and paramount among these is healthcare. This report, focusing on ZIP code 48076, Southfield, Michigan, provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to residents seeking medical care. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for those considering **moving to Southfield** and evaluating their **healthcare access**.

Southfield, a vibrant suburban city in Oakland County, boasts a strategic location with convenient access to major roadways and a diverse population. However, the effectiveness of its healthcare access hinges on the ability of residents to reach medical facilities. This score aims to quantify that accessibility, considering the practical realities of navigating the city and its surrounding areas.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary method of **transportation** for most Southfield residents is personal vehicles. The city’s layout, centered around major thoroughfares, significantly impacts drive times to healthcare providers. Primary roadways include the M-10 (Lodge Freeway), I-696 (Reuther Freeway), US-24 (Telegraph Road), and 12 Mile Road, all of which contribute to the overall accessibility score.

Drive times, of course, fluctuate based on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific destination. During peak rush hour, particularly on the M-10 and I-696, congestion can significantly extend travel times. For example, a trip from the northern reaches of 48076 to Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak (a major regional medical center) could take 20 minutes during off-peak hours but potentially double during rush hour.

Conversely, destinations within Southfield, such as Ascension Providence Hospital - Southfield Campus, are generally more accessible, with drive times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the starting point within the ZIP code. Accessibility to these facilities is a major plus for residents. The proximity of healthcare providers within the city itself contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transit services within and around Southfield. While not as extensive as systems in larger, more densely populated cities, SMART offers crucial connections for those without personal vehicles. Routes serving 48076 include key lines that connect to major medical facilities.

Route 740, for instance, provides direct access to Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, and other healthcare facilities along its route. Route 751 offers connections to hospitals in Detroit, including Henry Ford Hospital, offering expanded healthcare options. Route 461 serves the city of Southfield itself, with stops near several medical offices and clinics.

The accessibility of these routes is further enhanced by the availability of ADA-compliant buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. This is a crucial element of **healthcare access** for a significant segment of the population. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor, potentially impacting the overall score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The availability of these services in Southfield is generally good, with relatively short wait times.

The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances. This cost consideration can negatively impact the affordability of **healthcare access** for some residents.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several providers operate within the Southfield area. These services cater to patients with mobility limitations or those needing assistance with medical equipment. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Medstar Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services.

These services are often covered by insurance, making them a viable option for those who qualify. However, scheduling and availability can sometimes be a challenge, potentially impacting the overall health score. The availability of these specialized services is a critical component of **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

Calculating the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in 48076 requires a nuanced approach. The score is not a single number but a composite assessment, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each **transportation** option.

The score must consider the following factors: drive times to various healthcare facilities, frequency and coverage of public transit routes, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transport. The socio-economic demographics of the area also play a role, as income levels influence the affordability of certain **transportation** options.

The presence of major hospitals within and near Southfield, such as Ascension Providence Hospital - Southfield Campus and Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, positively influences the score. The proximity of these facilities reduces drive times for many residents. The availability of SMART bus routes connecting to major healthcare providers also contributes positively.

However, the limitations of public transit frequency, the cost of ride-sharing, and potential delays due to traffic congestion on major roadways like the M-10 and I-696 negatively impact the score. The overall score is further influenced by the availability and accessibility of specialized medical transport services for individuals with disabilities or those requiring medical assistance.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in ZIP code 48076 reflects a mixed picture. Southfield offers a good level of **healthcare access** due to the presence of major hospitals, the availability of public transit, and the convenience of ride-sharing services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of alternative **transportation** options present challenges.

For those considering **moving to Southfield**, understanding these factors is crucial. The city offers a good foundation for healthcare access, but residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when evaluating the ease and affordability of reaching medical care. This assessment, while not a definitive score, provides a valuable framework for understanding the realities of navigating healthcare in Southfield, Michigan. The accessibility of healthcare is a critical factor in determining the overall health and well-being of any community.