48079, Saint Clair, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48079, Saint Clair, Michigan is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.02 percent of residents in 48079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ascension River District Hospital with a distance of 4.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 48079

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 48079, encompassing the charming locale of Saint Clair, necessitates a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. A critical component of this assessment is the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This write-up delves into the various modes of transportation available, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a vivid picture of the healthcare landscape for those *moving to Saint Clair*.

The primary arteries for automobile travel within and around 48079 are the I-94 freeway, also known as the Blue Water Bridge Highway, and the scenic M-29, or Marine City Highway. These roadways provide crucial links to healthcare providers in the surrounding areas, including Port Huron, Marysville, and even the larger metropolitan areas of Detroit. The drive times, however, are significantly impacted by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours and holiday travel.

For residents seeking routine care, the drive to local clinics and family practices within Saint Clair is generally manageable. However, accessing specialized medical services, such as those offered by hospitals and specialist practices in Port Huron, requires navigating the I-94 corridor. During off-peak hours, this commute can be accomplished in approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, this drive can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour, significantly impacting the overall healthcare access for residents.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though limited, mode of travel. The Blue Water Area Transit (BWAT) provides bus services within St. Clair County. While BWAT routes may offer connectivity to healthcare facilities, the frequency and coverage are not as comprehensive as in more urban areas. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on all buses is crucial for assessing healthcare access for individuals with disabilities.

Specifically, BWAT Route 10 serves the Saint Clair area, providing connections to Marysville and Port Huron. However, the schedule may not align perfectly with the operating hours of all healthcare providers, and the travel time via public transit is typically longer than driving. The lack of extensive route coverage and the potential for longer travel times can present a significant barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. Their availability in 48079, while present, may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or at off-peak hours, needs consideration when assessing their impact on healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available for individuals requiring specialized medical transportation. These services are primarily for emergencies or for those unable to use other modes of transport. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited depending on the specific needs of the individual.

Evaluating the healthcare landscape also requires considering the proximity of hospitals and specialist practices. McLaren Port Huron Hospital, located in Port Huron, is the primary hospital serving the area. This hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. The drive time to McLaren Port Huron, as mentioned earlier, is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access.

Other healthcare facilities in the region include various clinics, urgent care centers, and specialist practices. The accessibility of these facilities via different transportation modes is vital. The location of these facilities, along with their operating hours, must be considered in conjunction with the availability and efficiency of transportation options.

The overall health score for residents of 48079 is significantly influenced by the transportation infrastructure and the ease of accessing healthcare. While the area offers a pleasant lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options can pose challenges for individuals needing frequent medical attention. The drive times, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those without personal transportation or those with mobility limitations.

Moreover, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services and medical transport are crucial factors. The BWAT bus service, while offering an alternative, is limited in scope and frequency. The overall health score is, therefore, somewhat compromised by the transportation challenges.

The healthcare access for individuals *moving to Saint Clair* must be carefully considered. While the area offers a good quality of life, the transportation infrastructure presents a challenge. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the accessibility of healthcare providers before making a move.

To improve the overall health score, investments in public transportation infrastructure are crucial. Expanding the BWAT route coverage, increasing the frequency of bus services, and ensuring the availability of ADA-accessible features on all buses would significantly improve healthcare access for all residents.

Furthermore, promoting ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers could offer additional options for those needing medical care. Encouraging the development of telemedicine services and expanding the availability of telehealth appointments could also help to mitigate the transportation challenges.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 48079 is influenced by the transportation infrastructure. The drive times, limited public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all play a role in determining the ease of accessing healthcare. While the area offers a good quality of life, the transportation challenges must be addressed to improve the overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.