31321, Pembroke, Georgia Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 31321, Pembroke, Georgia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.14 percent of the residents in 31321 has some form of health insurance. 39.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.38 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 31321 would have to travel an average of 15.56 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Evans Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 259 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 31321, Pembroke, Georgia.

## Breathing Easy in Pembroke: An Asthma Score for 31321

The air hangs heavy in Pembroke, Georgia, a humid blanket woven with the scent of pine and sweet tea. It’s a smell that evokes lazy afternoons and porch swings, but for some residents, it’s a reminder of a daily struggle. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, casts a long shadow, and understanding its impact on a community is crucial to building a healthier future. This is our Asthma Score assessment for ZIP code 31321, a deep dive into the factors influencing respiratory health in Pembroke.

**The Scorecard: A Holistic View**

We're not just crunching numbers here. This isn't a sterile report. We're painting a picture of life in Pembroke, a vibrant community where the air quality, access to healthcare, and the very rhythm of daily life intertwine to affect the respiratory health of its residents. Our Asthma Score considers several key areas:

* **Environmental Factors:** Air quality, allergens, and potential irritants.
* **Healthcare Access:** Availability of doctors, specialists, and medications.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Income levels, housing quality, and access to resources.
* **Community Engagement:** Awareness of asthma, availability of support groups, and participation in wellness programs.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Diet, exercise, and exposure to environmental triggers.

**Demographics: The Faces of Pembroke**

Before we delve into the specifics, let's meet the people of 31321. Pembroke is a town of roughly 3,000 residents, a close-knit community where everyone seems to know everyone else. The population skews slightly older, with a significant portion of retirees enjoying the slower pace of life. The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic population adding to the cultural tapestry. Household incomes are modest, reflecting the economic realities of a rural community. Many residents work in the local agricultural sector, while others commute to nearby cities for employment.

Imagine Mrs. Rodriguez, a grandmother who loves to tend her vibrant garden, but whose asthma flares up during pollen season. Picture Mr. Johnson, a retired veteran who enjoys woodworking in his garage, but finds the sawdust triggers his breathing difficulties. These are the people we're talking about, the individuals whose lives are directly impacted by the factors we're assessing.

**Environmental Factors: The Breath of the Land**

The natural beauty of Pembroke is undeniable. Towering pines, sprawling fields, and the gentle flow of the Ogeechee River create a picturesque setting. But this idyllic landscape also presents challenges for respiratory health.

The humid climate, common in the Southeast, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. High humidity encourages mold and mildew growth, common indoor allergens. The pollen count, especially during spring and fall, can be significant, triggering allergic reactions and asthma attacks.

The air quality, while generally good, is something to watch. The presence of agricultural activities, like farming, can introduce pesticides and other chemicals into the air. The proximity to major roadways can also contribute to air pollution.

**Vignette:**

* **The Pollen's Dance:** The air is thick with the scent of pine and the golden dust of pollen. Sarah, a young girl with bright eyes and a love for the outdoors, is playing in her backyard. Her inhaler is never far from her side. Her mother, a nurse, constantly monitors the pollen forecast, trying to balance her daughter's need for fresh air with the risk of a flare-up.

**Healthcare Access: Navigating the System**

Access to quality healthcare is a cornerstone of asthma management. In Pembroke, the availability of medical professionals is a mixed bag. The town has a small clinic, but specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, are located in nearby cities, requiring travel and potentially adding to the burden of healthcare costs.

The availability of prescription medications is generally good, but the cost can be a barrier for some residents. Insurance coverage varies, and the financial strain of managing a chronic illness can be significant.

**Vignette:**

* **The Doctor's Visit:** John, a middle-aged man with a persistent cough, is waiting in the clinic. He's been struggling to breathe, and his inhaler isn't helping. The wait is long, and he feels increasingly anxious. When he finally sees the doctor, he feels rushed. The doctor prescribes a new medication, but John worries about the cost and the hassle of traveling to a specialist.

**Socioeconomic Factors: The Weight of Circumstances**

Poverty and socioeconomic disparities can significantly impact asthma management. Lower-income families may live in substandard housing with poor ventilation, mold, and pests, exacerbating asthma symptoms. They may also have limited access to healthy food, making it harder to manage the disease through diet.

Stress, a common factor in low-income communities, can also worsen asthma symptoms. The constant worry about finances, job security, and healthcare can take a toll on both physical and mental health.

**Vignette:**

* **The Crumbling House:** The paint is peeling off the walls, and a musty odor permeates the air. Maria lives in a small, dilapidated house with her two children. The house is infested with mold, and the children's asthma is constantly flaring up. Maria struggles to afford the necessary medications and is overwhelmed by the challenges of providing a safe and healthy environment for her family.

**Community Engagement: Building a Network of Support**

Pembroke has a strong sense of community, but awareness of asthma and the resources available to manage it can be improved. Local schools and community organizations could play a greater role in educating residents about asthma triggers, prevention strategies, and available support services.

The creation of asthma support groups would provide a valuable platform for residents to share experiences, learn from each other, and access emotional support. These groups could also serve as a conduit for information about local wellness programs and healthcare resources.

**Vignette:**

* **The Coffee Shop Conversation:** A group of mothers are meeting at a local coffee shop. They're discussing their children's asthma, sharing tips on managing symptoms, and offering each other words of encouragement. They realize they are not alone in their struggles.

**Lifestyle Factors: Taking Control of Your Health**

Lifestyle choices play a crucial role in asthma management. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of environmental triggers can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

Pembroke offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as walking trails and parks. Encouraging residents to engage in physical activity, while taking precautions to avoid triggers, can improve their overall health and well-being.

Education about asthma triggers, such as tobacco smoke, dust mites, and pet dander, is essential. Providing resources and support to help residents create a healthy home environment can make a significant difference.

**Vignette:**

* **The Morning Walk:** John, the retired veteran, starts his day with a brisk walk along the Ogeechee River. He's learned to avoid the areas with high pollen counts and to carry his inhaler with him. He breathes deeply, enjoying the fresh air and the beauty of the natural surroundings.

**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Life into Pembroke**

Pembroke has the potential to implement and enhance local wellness programs to address asthma and improve community health.

* **Asthma Awareness Campaigns:** Partnering with local schools, clinics, and community centers to organize asthma awareness events, educational workshops, and health screenings.
* **Home Environmental Assessments:** Providing free or low-cost home assessments to identify and address asthma triggers, such as mold, dust mites, and pests.
* **Exercise Programs:** Creating accessible and inclusive exercise programs, such as walking groups, yoga classes, and Tai Chi sessions, to promote physical activity and improve respiratory health.
* **Healthy Eating Initiatives:** Partnering with local farmers' markets and grocery stores to promote healthy eating habits and provide access to fresh, affordable produce.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Offering smoking cessation programs to help residents quit smoking and reduce their exposure to secondhand smoke.

**Neighborhood Vibe: A Pulse on the Community**

Pembroke's neighborhood vibe is generally friendly and welcoming. Residents take pride in their community and are willing to lend a helping hand. However, the community could benefit from increased awareness of asthma and a greater focus on promoting healthy lifestyles.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Outdoors with Caution**

Pembroke offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, but residents with asthma need to be mindful of potential triggers. Parks and walking trails can be enjoyed, but it's important to be aware of pollen counts, humidity levels, and air quality.

**The Final Assessment: A Call to Action**

The Asthma Score for 31321 reveals a community with both strengths and challenges. While Pembroke boasts a strong sense of community and a beautiful natural environment, factors such as healthcare access, socioeconomic disparities, and environmental triggers contribute to the burden of asthma.

**Our Recommendations:**

* **Increase Asthma Awareness:** Launch community-wide campaigns to educate residents about asthma triggers, prevention strategies, and available resources.
* **Improve Healthcare Access:** Advocate for increased access to specialists, affordable medications, and comprehensive healthcare services.
* **Address Socioeconomic Disparities:** Support programs that address poverty, improve housing quality, and promote healthy eating habits.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage physical activity, healthy diets, and avoidance of environmental triggers.
* **Foster Community Engagement:** Create asthma support groups and partner with local organizations to build a network of support.
* **Implement Local Wellness Programs:** Prioritize asthma awareness campaigns, home environmental assessments, exercise programs, healthy eating initiatives, and smoking cessation programs.

By addressing these issues, Pembroke can breathe new life into its community and create a healthier future for all its residents. The air may still carry the scent of pine and sweet tea, but with proactive measures, it can also carry the promise of easier breathing and a brighter tomorrow. The Asthma Score is not just a number; it's a roadmap to a healthier Pembroke.