48150, Livonia, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48150, Livonia, Michigan is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.60 percent of residents in 48150 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Joe Mercy Hospital System Livonia with a distance of 0.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 48150

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Livonia, Michigan (ZIP Code 48150), focusing on the crucial aspect of **healthcare access** via various **transportation** methods. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for prospective residents or those considering **moving to Livonia**. Accessibility to healthcare is a significant determinant of overall well-being, and this assessment aims to illuminate the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services.

Livonia, a vibrant suburban community, enjoys a strategic location within the Detroit metropolitan area. This proximity offers both advantages and disadvantages when assessing healthcare accessibility. While residents benefit from a wide array of medical facilities, the dispersed nature of the region necessitates careful consideration of travel times and transportation options. The following sections delve into the specifics of each mode of transport, culminating in an overall health score.

**Driving Time to Healthcare:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Livonia residents is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode hinges on factors like traffic congestion, road conditions, and the distance to healthcare providers. Several major roadways serve the area, including I-96 (Jeffries Freeway), I-275, M-14, and major thoroughfares like Farmington Road, Middlebelt Road, and Haggerty Road.

For residents in the central part of 48150, accessing Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills, a major regional hospital, typically involves a drive of 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic on Farmington Road or Middlebelt Road. Henry Ford Hospital – Livonia, located within the ZIP code, offers immediate access for many, potentially reducing drive times to under 5 minutes. However, specialized care might necessitate travel to Detroit-area hospitals, such as the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, which can take 30-45 minutes via I-96, depending on traffic.

Rush hour, especially on weekdays, can significantly extend these drive times. The I-96 corridor often experiences heavy congestion, particularly near the I-275 interchange. Similarly, Farmington Road and Middlebelt Road can become bottlenecks during peak travel periods. Therefore, residents should factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments.

**Public Transportation Options:**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transportation services in the Detroit metropolitan area, including Livonia. Several SMART routes serve the 48150 ZIP code, offering connections to various healthcare facilities and other destinations.

Route 780, which runs along Middlebelt Road, provides a direct link to Henry Ford Hospital – Livonia, making it a convenient option for residents along its route. Route 740, operating on Plymouth Road, offers access to the University of Michigan Health System facilities in Ann Arbor, though the trip can be lengthy. Route 26, which traverses Farmington Road, provides access to Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills.

While SMART offers an essential service, its limitations should be acknowledged. Frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited. Additionally, the network's coverage may not extend to all areas of the ZIP code, requiring residents to walk a considerable distance to reach a bus stop.

SMART strives to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. All fixed-route buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. The system also offers curb-to-curb service, known as SMARTCONNECT, for individuals who cannot use fixed-route services due to a disability. However, this service requires advance booking and may have limited availability.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in the Detroit metropolitan area, including Livonia. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive.

Ride-share availability in Livonia is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The price of a ride can fluctuate based on demand and distance.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical transport, several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with assistance from trained personnel.

Companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare operate in the area, providing NEMT services for Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries. Other private companies, such as Senior Transportation Services, cater to seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 48150 is moderately positive. The presence of Henry Ford Hospital – Livonia within the ZIP code provides immediate access to a range of medical services for many residents. The proximity to Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills, further enhances healthcare options.

The availability of multiple transportation methods, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, contributes to the score. However, several factors mitigate the score. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly increase drive times. Public transit frequency and coverage are limited, and ride-share costs can be a barrier for some.

The score is also impacted by the need for specialized care, which may necessitate travel to hospitals in Detroit or Ann Arbor, significantly increasing travel times. The availability and accessibility of NEMT services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, but these services often require advance planning and may have limited availability.

For individuals considering **moving to Livonia**, it is essential to assess their specific healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Residents who rely on public transit should carefully evaluate the routes and schedules to determine their accessibility to healthcare providers. Individuals with mobility limitations should investigate the availability and eligibility requirements for NEMT services.

Overall, while Livonia offers reasonable **healthcare access**, residents should proactively plan their transportation to medical appointments, considering potential delays and exploring all available options. This proactive approach will contribute to improved health outcomes and a higher quality of life for residents of 48150.