48120, Dearborn, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48120, Dearborn, Michigan is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.67 percent of residents in 48120 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Dearborn with a distance of 1.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Dearborn, MI (ZIP Code 48120)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the ease with which residents of Dearborn, Michigan (ZIP Code 48120) can reach medical facilities, assigning an "Overall Health Score" based on the efficiency, availability, and accessibility of various transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture for prospective residents considering moving to Dearborn.

Dearborn, a city steeped in automotive history and cultural diversity, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its layout, influenced by the presence of major thoroughfares, dictates the flow of traffic and, consequently, the time it takes to reach essential medical services. The city's transportation infrastructure is a critical determinant of the health and well-being of its residents.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many Dearborn residents seeking healthcare. The city's network of roads, including major arteries like the Southfield Freeway (M-39), the Lodge Freeway (M-10), and Michigan Avenue, dictates drive times. These routes, while offering direct access to hospitals and clinics, are often subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Henry Ford Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is located in Detroit, a short drive from Dearborn. Reaching this facility from various points within 48120 involves navigating the Southfield Freeway or Michigan Avenue. During off-peak hours, the drive might take 15-20 minutes. However, rush hour can significantly extend this, potentially doubling the travel time.

Other healthcare facilities, such as Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, located within the city, are generally more accessible. Driving to this hospital from most locations within 48120 should typically take less than 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on streets like Telegraph Road and Ford Road.

The presence of these major roadways, while facilitating access, also introduces potential delays. Accidents or construction on the Southfield Freeway, for example, can create significant bottlenecks, impacting travel times to both local and regional healthcare providers. The Overall Health Score must reflect these inherent challenges.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provide public transit options in Dearborn. These services offer an alternative to driving, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive.

Several SMART bus routes serve the 48120 ZIP code, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. Route 16, for instance, travels along Michigan Avenue, providing access to Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, and other medical offices. Route 54, running along Ford Road, offers another vital link to healthcare providers.

Accessibility is a critical factor in evaluating public transit. SMART buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements. These ADA-compliant features are crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents.

However, public transit in Dearborn faces challenges. Service frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially hindering access to urgent care or emergency services. Travel times on public transit are often longer than driving, requiring careful planning and consideration for appointment scheduling. The Overall Health Score must weigh these factors.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for accessing healthcare. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing residents to request a ride directly from their location. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transport services, like MedRide and CareRide, specialize in transporting individuals with medical needs. These services provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers. They are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care during transport.

While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient alternatives, they also have limitations. The cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. Availability can also be an issue, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver coverage.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in 48120 is a composite measure, considering the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation option. Drive times, influenced by traffic congestion on major roadways, represent a significant factor. Public transit, with its ADA-compliant features, provides an essential alternative, but its limited frequency and longer travel times must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient options, but their cost and availability present challenges.

The Overall Health Score for 48120 is influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within and near the city. The presence of Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, provides a convenient option for many residents. However, the proximity to Henry Ford Hospital and other Detroit-based facilities necessitates consideration of travel times and traffic conditions.

**Recommendations**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several steps can be taken. Enhancing public transit frequency, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, would significantly improve access to healthcare. Promoting ride-sharing and medical transport services through subsidies or partnerships could also help reduce transportation barriers.

Furthermore, community initiatives to educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources can improve health outcomes. This includes providing information on public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

By considering these factors, prospective residents moving to Dearborn can make informed decisions about their healthcare access. The Overall Health Score provides a valuable tool for assessing the city's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach healthcare providers is a cornerstone of a healthy community.