48161, Monroe, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48161, Monroe, Michigan is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.15 percent of residents in 48161 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Monroe Regional Hospital with a distance of 1.97 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 48161

The health of a community is intricately woven with the ease with which its residents can access essential healthcare services. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 48161 (Monroe, Michigan), provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation landscape. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, all of which significantly impact healthcare access for individuals considering moving to Monroe.

The primary concern, especially for those needing urgent care or regular appointments, is the time it takes to reach healthcare facilities. Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in this area. Major arteries like **US-24 (Telegraph Road)**, **I-75**, and **M-50 (Monroe Street)** are crucial for navigating the region. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. Residents often face delays, especially when traveling north or south on **I-75**, and the condition of these roads, including potholes and construction, can further impact travel times.

For instance, a trip from the northern edge of 48161 to the **ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital** (located near the intersection of **M-50** and **US-24**) could take anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, accessing specialist clinics located in nearby cities like Ann Arbor or Toledo would require longer commutes, potentially exceeding an hour, especially during rush hour. This extended travel time poses a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Public transit, though present, offers a less robust solution. The **Monroe County Transportation Authority (MCTA)** operates a bus system within the county. While the MCTA provides service to various points within Monroe, including the hospital and some medical offices, its routes are limited, and frequency can be a concern. The buses, while equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features like ramps and designated seating, might not always be the most convenient or time-efficient option, especially for those living outside the immediate bus routes.

The MCTA routes that serve healthcare facilities include routes 1 and 2, which serve the hospital and other medical facilities. However, the schedule can be a hindrance, with limited evening and weekend service. This limitation restricts access to healthcare, particularly for those working non-traditional hours or needing emergency care outside of regular service times. The accessibility of bus stops, including sidewalks and safe crossing areas, can also be a factor, especially for elderly individuals or those with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, but their availability in Monroe is variable. While these services are generally accessible, the wait times and surge pricing, especially during peak demand or off-peak hours, can be a deterrent. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, making it a less affordable option for frequent medical appointments. This reliance on ride-sharing can also be problematic for those living in more rural areas of the ZIP code, where service availability might be limited.

Medical transport services are available for individuals with specific needs. Companies like **MedStar Ambulance** and **Superior Ambulance Service** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability and scheduling of these services require advance planning, and the cost can be a significant factor.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 48161 is therefore moderate. While the presence of major roadways offers reasonable access for those who can drive, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-planning for medical transport create significant challenges for some residents. The location of medical facilities within the ZIP code is a positive factor, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on **I-75** and **US-24** can negatively impact the overall score.

The health score is also impacted by the demographics of the area. Monroe has a significant population of elderly residents and individuals with disabilities, who are particularly vulnerable to transportation barriers. The availability of affordable housing and the cost of living also influence the overall health of the community. For those considering moving to Monroe, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial.

Improving the health score requires a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing the MCTA bus service by increasing route frequency, expanding service hours, and improving the geographic reach of the routes would significantly improve healthcare access. Collaborating with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, would reduce travel times.

Furthermore, promoting the development of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code, including specialist clinics and urgent care centers, would reduce the need for long-distance travel. The development of telehealth services, offering remote consultations and monitoring, can also mitigate the impact of transportation barriers.

The overall health score is not static. It is a reflection of the evolving transportation landscape and the community's ability to adapt and innovate. Addressing the transportation challenges in 48161 is crucial to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare, ultimately improving the health and well-being of the entire community. The availability of healthcare access is a crucial factor in the quality of life, and addressing transportation barriers is vital for a healthy community.