The People Score for the Asthma Score in 36480, Uriah, Alabama is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.11 percent of the residents in 36480 has some form of health insurance. 36.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.28 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 36480 would have to travel an average of 15.62 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Monroe County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 101 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 36480, Uriah, Alabama.
Health Scores in 36480, Uriah, Alabama
Asthma Score | 11 |
---|---|
People Score | 29 |
Provider Score | 31 |
Hospital Score | 37 |
Travel Score | 25 |
36480 | Uriah | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 60.10 | 60.10 | 53.03 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 12.88 | 12.88 | 13.43 |
Medicare | 26.36 | 26.36 | 19.93 |
Medicaid | 11.56 | 11.56 | 19.33 |
TRICARE | 4.07 | 4.07 | 4.57 |
VA | 49.25 | 49.25 | 53.18 |
Percent Insured in 36480, Uriah, Alabama
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
36480 | Uriah | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 96.59 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 87.96 | 87.96 | 85.09 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.54 |
## Breathing Easy in Uriah: A Community Health Score for ZIP Code 36480
The humid air of Uriah, Alabama, hangs heavy, a blanket woven with the scent of pine and the distant murmur of the Alabama River. For many, this is the rhythm of life, a slow, deliberate pulse. But for those grappling with asthma, that very air can become a foe, a constant reminder of the struggle to breathe. This article, an "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 36480, isn't just about lungs; it's a deep dive into the community health landscape, a snapshot of the factors that contribute to or detract from the well-being of its residents. We'll explore the demographics, the neighborhood vibe, the available resources, and the opportunities for a healthy lifestyle in Uriah, all through the lens of asthma prevalence and management.
**The Baseline: Understanding the Breath of the Community**
Before we score, we need to understand the lay of the land. ZIP Code 36480 encompasses a relatively small, rural area nestled in Monroe County. The population, hovering around 600 residents, is predominantly white, with a significant Black population. The median age skews older, reflecting a trend of young people seeking opportunities elsewhere. Poverty rates are higher than the state average, and access to healthcare can be a challenge. These socioeconomic factors are crucial. They often correlate with higher rates of asthma, as they can limit access to preventative care, medication, and healthy living environments.
Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a lifelong resident of Uriah, sitting on her porch swing, the rhythmic creak a familiar comfort. She remembers a time when asthma was a whispered worry, a condition mostly managed at home. Now, she sees it more openly, a part of the fabric of the community, affecting children and adults alike. Her observations are invaluable. She knows the nuances of the neighborhood, the dusty roads that kick up allergens, the wood-burning stoves that warm homes in the winter, and the impact of seasonal changes on her neighbors' breathing.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Challenges and Strengths**
The "vibe" of Uriah is undeniably Southern, characterized by a strong sense of community, a slower pace of life, and a deep connection to the land. But this idyllic picture is tempered by realities that can impact respiratory health.
* **Housing:** Many homes are older, and while charming, they may lack proper insulation, leading to mold and mildew growth, common asthma triggers. The prevalence of older homes also means the potential for lead paint, another significant health hazard. Imagine a child, playing on a chipped windowsill, unknowingly exposed to a silent threat.
* **Environmental Factors:** The rural setting offers both advantages and disadvantages. The abundance of trees and vegetation can trigger seasonal allergies, a major asthma trigger. Agricultural practices, including the use of pesticides, can also contribute to poor air quality. Picture a farmer, working in his fields, unknowingly exposed to chemicals that exacerbate his asthma.
* **Social Determinants of Health:** The availability of resources like affordable housing, access to nutritious food, and safe places to exercise significantly impacts health outcomes. Limited access to these resources in Uriah can create a challenging environment for managing asthma. Consider a family struggling to afford fresh produce, relying instead on processed foods that may worsen inflammation and trigger asthma symptoms.
**Places to Live: Where Breathing is Easier (and Where It's Not)**
The choice of where to live in Uriah can influence asthma management. Proximity to potential triggers is key.
* **Proximity to Agricultural Fields:** Homes located near agricultural fields may experience higher levels of pollen and pesticide exposure, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.
* **Proximity to the Alabama River:** While the river offers recreational opportunities, it can also contribute to humidity and mold growth, especially during warmer months.
* **Housing Quality:** The condition of the home is paramount. Well-maintained homes with proper ventilation and insulation are essential for minimizing indoor allergens.
**The "Asthma Score" Components: A Deep Dive into Community Health**
To create a meaningful "Asthma Score," we need to consider several key components:
1. **Access to Healthcare:** This is a critical factor. Is there a primary care physician in Uriah or nearby? Are there specialists, like pulmonologists or allergists, readily accessible? The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation, and the affordability of medical care all play a significant role. Imagine a parent struggling to take their child to a doctor's appointment miles away, facing transportation challenges and financial burdens.
2. **Asthma Education and Management Programs:** Are there local programs that provide asthma education, self-management training, and support groups? These programs empower individuals to take control of their health.
3. **Air Quality Monitoring:** Is there any air quality monitoring in the area? This data is crucial for understanding the local air quality and identifying potential triggers.
4. **Outdoor Recreation Opportunities:** Safe and accessible outdoor spaces are essential for promoting physical activity and overall well-being. Are there parks, walking trails, or other recreational areas in Uriah?
5. **Healthy Food Access:** Access to fresh, affordable produce is vital for overall health and asthma management. Are there local farmers' markets or grocery stores that offer healthy food options?
6. **Community Awareness and Support:** The level of community awareness about asthma and the availability of support networks can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected.
**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope and Healing**
While challenges exist, Uriah also possesses the potential for positive change. The presence of even a few local wellness programs can significantly impact the community's health.
* **School-Based Asthma Programs:** Schools are ideal settings for asthma education and management programs. These programs can teach children about their condition, how to avoid triggers, and how to use their medication effectively.
* **Community Health Centers:** If there's a community health center in or near Uriah, it could provide vital services, including asthma screenings, education, and medication assistance.
* **Support Groups:** Connecting individuals with asthma and their families can provide invaluable emotional support and practical advice.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty of Uriah (Safely)**
Uriah's natural beauty offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, but it's crucial to balance these with asthma management.
* **Walking Trails:** Safe and accessible walking trails can encourage physical activity, a vital component of overall health.
* **Parks and Playgrounds:** Well-maintained parks and playgrounds provide opportunities for children to play and exercise.
* **Considerations for Asthma:** Individuals with asthma should be mindful of pollen counts, humidity levels, and air quality when engaging in outdoor activities. They should also carry their rescue inhalers and be prepared to manage their symptoms.
**The "Asthma Score" – A Hypothetical Assessment**
Without specific data, we can only offer a hypothetical "Asthma Score" based on the general information available.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Moderate. While there may be a primary care physician in the area, access to specialists and specialized asthma care may be limited.
* **Asthma Education and Management Programs:** Low. The availability of formal programs is likely limited, but there may be informal support networks within the community.
* **Air Quality Monitoring:** Low. The presence of air quality monitoring is unlikely.
* **Outdoor Recreation Opportunities:** Moderate. The natural environment offers opportunities for recreation, but access to safe and well-maintained spaces may be limited.
* **Healthy Food Access:** Low. Access to fresh, affordable produce may be a challenge.
* **Community Awareness and Support:** Moderate. The strong sense of community may provide informal support, but formal awareness campaigns may be lacking.
**Overall "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 36480: Suboptimal.**
**Recommendations for Improvement:**
* **Advocate for increased healthcare access:** This includes supporting efforts to recruit and retain healthcare providers, particularly specialists.
* **Promote asthma education and management programs:** Partner with schools, community centers, and local organizations to implement asthma education programs.
* **Improve air quality awareness:** Encourage air quality monitoring and educate residents about local air quality issues.
* **Increase access to healthy food:** Support local farmers' markets and advocate for improved access to healthy food options.
* **Enhance outdoor recreation opportunities:** Develop and maintain safe and accessible parks and walking trails.
* **Foster community awareness and support:** Organize community events to raise awareness about asthma and connect individuals with resources.
**The Future: Breathing Easier in Uriah**
The journey towards improved community health in Uriah is ongoing. By understanding the challenges and leveraging the strengths of the community, residents can work together to create a healthier environment for everyone, especially those living with asthma. This "Asthma Score" is not just a number; it's a call to action. It's a plea for collaboration, for awareness, and for a future where the air in Uriah is not just humid, but also clear, clean, and conducive to a life lived fully, with every breath. Imagine a future where Mrs. Johnson can sit on her porch swing, not just enjoying the rhythm of life, but also breathing easy, knowing her community is working to ensure the same for her neighbors and generations to come.
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