48030, Hazel Park, Michigan Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 48030, Hazel Park, Michigan is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.92 percent of residents in 48030 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sinai-Grace Hospital with a distance of 5.11 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hazel Park (ZIP Code 48030)

Considering a move to Hazel Park, Michigan (ZIP code 48030), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" by evaluating transportation options to relevant medical facilities. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this vibrant Oakland County community. This information will help you assess the ease of navigating the healthcare landscape, especially if you are considering moving to Hazel Park.

The Prostate Cancer Score isn't a formal medical metric; rather, it's a composite assessment of transportation convenience. It considers factors like drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transport options to key medical facilities specializing in prostate health. The score reflects the overall ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare services within and around Hazel Park.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Hazel Park's location offers relatively convenient access to healthcare facilities via a network of major roadways. The primary artery is **I-75**, which runs north-south, providing rapid access to hospitals and clinics in Detroit to the south and Troy and Pontiac to the north. Driving south on I-75, reaching the Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, a major cancer center, typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

**I-696**, the "Reuther Freeway," forms a critical east-west connection. Traveling east on I-696 leads to Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, a highly-regarded medical center, often within a 10-15 minute drive. Going west on I-696 offers access to facilities in Farmington Hills, although travel times can be longer, especially during peak hours.

Local roads like **John R Road**, **Woodward Avenue**, and **Eight Mile Road** provide alternative routes, though they are often more congested. John R Road offers direct access to several medical offices and clinics, while Woodward Avenue provides access to Detroit and the northern suburbs. Eight Mile Road, the historic boundary, links Hazel Park to Detroit and neighboring communities, but traffic can be unpredictable.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System:**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transit services in Oakland County, including Hazel Park. Several bus routes serve the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, public transit times are generally longer than driving times, and service frequency can vary.

**Route 461 (Woodward)** is a crucial route, running along Woodward Avenue, connecting Hazel Park to Detroit and points north. This route offers access to several hospitals and medical centers along its path. Route 520, which runs along Eight Mile Road, connects to Detroit and provides access to medical facilities in the city.

Accessibility is a crucial factor. SMART buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, navigating public transit with mobility limitations or during inclement weather can present challenges. Checking the SMART website for real-time bus tracking and schedule information is essential for planning your trips.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hazel Park. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer not to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. Ride-sharing can be a good option for reaching medical appointments, especially during off-peak hours when traffic is lighter.

Several medical transportation services cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and luggage. Companies like CareRide and MedRide are available in the Detroit metropolitan area. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized medical equipment.

**Prostate Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the transportation options, Hazel Park receives a moderate Prostate Cancer Score. The area benefits from its proximity to major roadways and hospitals. Drive times to key facilities are generally reasonable. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can impact travel times.

Public transit is available but may not be the most convenient or efficient option for all patients. Ride-sharing services offer a good alternative, and medical transportation services provide specialized support for those who need it.

**Factors Affecting the Score:**

The Prostate Cancer Score is influenced by several factors:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** Hazel Park is located within a reasonable distance of several hospitals and clinics specializing in prostate cancer care.
* **Roadway Infrastructure:** The presence of major highways like I-75 and I-696 facilitates access to healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Availability:** SMART bus routes provide public transit access, but travel times can be longer than driving.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services enhances accessibility, particularly for those who cannot drive.
* **Traffic Congestion:** Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can impact drive times and public transit reliability.

**Recommendations for Healthcare Access:**

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Consider your mobility limitations, preferred mode of transportation, and budget when evaluating healthcare access.
* **Plan your routes:** Familiarize yourself with the roadways, public transit routes, and ride-sharing options to optimize your travel time.
* **Utilize technology:** Use navigation apps to check traffic conditions and plan your routes.
* **Explore medical transportation services:** If you have mobility limitations or require specialized assistance, consider utilizing medical transportation services.
* **Consider healthcare facility locations:** When choosing a healthcare provider, consider the location of their facilities and the ease of access via different transportation modes.

**Conclusion:**

Hazel Park offers a decent level of healthcare access for prostate cancer screening and treatment. The availability of major roadways, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options provides several choices. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion should be considered. By carefully evaluating your transportation needs and planning your routes, you can effectively navigate the healthcare landscape in Hazel Park. This information should be valuable for anyone considering moving to Hazel Park and concerned about healthcare access.