48210, Detroit, Michigan Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 48210, Detroit, Michigan is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.81 percent of residents in 48210 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry Ford Health System with a distance of 3.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 48210

This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Detroit's 48210 ZIP code, focusing on their ability to access healthcare. We will examine the various modes of transportation available, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, and analyze their impact on healthcare access. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Detroit**, as it directly affects their well-being.

The 48210 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of southwest Detroit, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning **healthcare access**. This area is densely populated and diverse, with a rich cultural heritage. Understanding the nuances of **transportation** options is crucial to evaluating the community's overall health profile. The following sections detail the specific transportation landscape, offering insights into the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical care.

**Driving and Road Networks:**

For residents with personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the major highways and thoroughfares. Interstate 75 (I-75), often referred to as the Fisher Freeway, provides a direct north-south route, connecting 48210 to hospitals and clinics located in downtown Detroit and the northern suburbs. However, I-75 is notorious for heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, which can significantly extend travel times and potentially delay urgent medical care.

Another critical route is the Southfield Freeway (M-39), which intersects with I-75 and offers access to healthcare providers located further west. The Jeffries Freeway (I-96) provides another important connection, linking the area to healthcare facilities on the west side of Detroit. Local roads, such as Fort Street, Vernor Highway, and Michigan Avenue, serve as vital connectors, providing access to smaller clinics, pharmacies, and urgent care centers.

Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. A trip to a downtown hospital could take anywhere from 15 minutes during off-peak hours to over 45 minutes during rush hour. Accessing suburban healthcare facilities may require even longer travel times. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, can be a significant barrier for those without access to a car or those unable to drive.

**Public Transportation:**

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides public transit services within the 48210 ZIP code. Numerous bus routes traverse the area, offering connections to various healthcare facilities. The most relevant routes include the 1, 16, 25, and 52, which serve key corridors and connect to major hospitals and clinics. However, the frequency of these routes can be inconsistent, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially increasing wait times and making it difficult to schedule appointments.

The Detroit People Mover, a light rail system, offers a limited service within the downtown area, providing connections to some hospitals. While the People Mover is accessible, it doesn’t directly serve the 48210 area.

DDOT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the accessibility of bus stops can vary, with some lacking adequate sidewalks or shelters. The overall reliability and efficiency of public transit are crucial factors influencing **healthcare access** for residents who rely on this mode of **transportation**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the 48210 area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, which can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or those needing to travel during off-peak hours. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for low-income residents, potentially limiting their access to healthcare.

Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedRide and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for appointments and other healthcare-related needs. These services are often equipped with specialized vehicles and trained staff to assist patients with mobility challenges. While these services can be invaluable, they often come with additional costs, which may not be covered by insurance.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity and Availability:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a critical factor in determining **healthcare access**. The 48210 ZIP code is relatively well-served by a network of hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers. Henry Ford Hospital, a major medical center, is located within a reasonable driving distance. Additionally, several smaller clinics and community health centers are located within the area, providing primary care and specialized services.

However, the availability of appointments and the capacity of these facilities can vary. Long wait times for appointments and limited access to specialized services can pose significant challenges for residents. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is also a crucial factor, as residents may need to travel further for specialized care.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options and healthcare facility availability, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of the 48210 ZIP code is moderately positive. While the area has a reasonable concentration of healthcare providers, several factors limit access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the limitations of public transit create barriers for some residents. The cost of ride-sharing services and the availability of specialized medical transportation can also be significant concerns.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations are proposed. Investing in public transit infrastructure, including increased frequency, expanded routes, and improved accessibility, is crucial. This would reduce wait times and make public transit a more viable option for residents. Supporting and subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income individuals could improve access to care.

Promoting the development of community health centers and expanding the availability of specialized services within the 48210 area would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care. Increasing awareness of available **transportation** options, including medical transportation services, would also be beneficial.

Ultimately, improving **healthcare access** in the 48210 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the challenges of **transportation**, affordability, and healthcare facility availability. By implementing these recommendations, the community can enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve the well-being of its residents, making **moving to Detroit** a more attractive and healthier prospect.