48186, Westland, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48186, Westland, Michigan is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.76 percent of residents in 48186 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Wayne with a distance of 1.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 48186

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Westland, Michigan (ZIP Code 48186), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. The score considers the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Westland, as they directly impact health outcomes and overall well-being.

Westland, a suburban community in Wayne County, offers a blend of residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. The city's location, while providing access to amenities, also presents unique transportation challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the landscape, enabling informed decisions regarding healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Road Network**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Westland is personal vehicle. The city's road network, while relatively well-maintained, can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours. Major arteries such as I-96 (Jeffries Freeway) and I-275 are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities located further afield.

For residents in the northern portion of Westland, accessing hospitals in Livonia or Farmington Hills via 6 Mile Road or 8 Mile Road is common. These routes, while shorter in distance, can be subject to traffic delays. Residents in the southern portion of Westland may opt to use Ford Road, a major east-west thoroughfare, to reach hospitals in Dearborn or Canton.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to Beaumont Hospital Wayne, located within Westland, might take only a few minutes. However, reaching hospitals in Detroit, such as Henry Ford Hospital, could take 30-45 minutes or longer, particularly during rush hour. The accuracy of navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze is essential for planning and optimizing travel times.

**Public Transit Options**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transit services in Westland. Several bus routes serve the city, offering an alternative to driving. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes may not be ideal for all healthcare needs.

Route 160 provides service along Ford Road, connecting Westland to surrounding communities. Route 125 travels along Warren Road, offering access to healthcare facilities in the area. Route 140 serves the western part of the city.

The accessibility of public transit for healthcare access in Westland is a mixed bag. While SMART buses offer a cost-effective transportation option, the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. Moreover, the limited frequency of some routes and the potential for longer travel times can pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or urgent healthcare needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SMART buses are equipped with features like ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, individuals with mobility impairments may still face challenges navigating bus stops and transferring between routes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Westland, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

The ease of access to ride-sharing services depends on factors such as demand and driver availability. During peak hours or in areas with limited driver density, wait times may be longer. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare-related travel. Several medical transport companies operate in the Westland area, including but not limited to, Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare.

Medical transport services offer a range of options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transportation. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Westland (ZIP Code 48186) is moderately positive. While the city offers a variety of transportation options, each has its own set of limitations.

The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access can be a challenge for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. Public transit, while available, may not be the most efficient or convenient option for all healthcare needs. Ride-sharing services provide a viable alternative, but their cost and availability can be a factor. Medical transport services offer specialized assistance for those with specific needs.

**Recommendations**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities.
* **Explore public transit:** Familiarize yourself with SMART bus routes and schedules.
* **Utilize ride-sharing:** Keep ride-sharing apps readily available for transportation needs.
* **Investigate medical transport:** Research medical transport options if specialized assistance is needed.
* **Plan ahead:** Factor in travel times and potential delays when scheduling healthcare appointments.
* **Advocate for improvements:** Support initiatives to improve public transit and healthcare access in the community.

By carefully considering these factors and taking proactive steps, residents of Westland can optimize their healthcare access and contribute to their overall well-being. The decision to move to Westland should include a thorough assessment of these transportation and healthcare access elements.