46990, Urbana, Indiana Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 46990, Urbana, Indiana is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.59 percent of the residents in 46990 has some form of health insurance. 34.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.10 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 46990 would have to travel an average of 5.57 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Parkview Wabash Hospital, Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 518 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 46990, Urbana, Indiana.

## Breathing Easy in Urbana: A Community Health Score for 46990

The air in Urbana, Indiana, whispers stories. Stories of families gathering on porches, the scent of freshly cut grass mingling with the faint, familiar hum of the Salamonie River. It’s a place where the rhythm of life slows, where neighbors know each other, and where the promise of a healthier future hangs in the air, thick and vibrant as a summer sunset. But how healthy is Urbana, really? And what can we do to ensure that everyone in the 46990 ZIP code has the chance to breathe easy, free from the constraints of asthma and other respiratory challenges?

This isn't just about medical statistics. It's about the *vibe* of the place, the choices available, and the opportunities for a truly healthy lifestyle. This is our "Asthma Score" for Urbana, a snapshot of community health, built on the ground, from the ground up.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**

Urbana is a small town, a patchwork quilt of generations. The 2023 population estimate hovers around 1,500 residents, a number that breathes a sense of intimacy into the community. We find a mix of long-time residents, families who’ve put down roots for generations, and newcomers drawn to the quiet charm and affordability of the area. The median age leans towards the older side, reflecting a strong sense of continuity and a deep connection to the land.

Picture Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered from years of gardening, tending to her prize-winning tomatoes in her backyard on North Street. She’s seen Urbana evolve, witnessed the ebb and flow of families, and understands the importance of community. Then there’s young Ethan, tearing around the park on his bike, his laughter echoing through the trees. He represents the future, the next generation of Urbana residents, and their well-being is paramount.

The racial makeup of Urbana is overwhelmingly white, with a small but growing representation of other ethnicities. This homogeneity offers a unique opportunity to build a truly inclusive community, one that celebrates diversity and ensures that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

**The Places We Call Home: Where We Live Matters**

The housing stock in Urbana is a mix of single-family homes, reflecting the town's primarily residential character. Many houses boast large yards, perfect for gardening, playing, and simply enjoying the outdoors. The cost of living is relatively low, making Urbana an attractive option for families and individuals seeking affordable housing.

Imagine a crisp autumn afternoon, the leaves ablaze with color. You’re driving down Main Street, past the well-maintained homes with their freshly painted porches and manicured lawns. You see Mr. Henderson, carefully raking leaves, and Mrs. Rodriguez, hanging laundry on the line, the scent of fresh linen carried on the breeze. These are the everyday moments that define the character of a community.

However, it's crucial to acknowledge the potential challenges. Older homes may require more maintenance, potentially impacting air quality. The availability of affordable, well-maintained housing is vital. The presence of lead paint in older structures needs careful consideration. This is where community initiatives, such as home improvement programs and lead abatement efforts, can make a significant difference, directly impacting the health and well-being of residents, especially children.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Feeling of Connection**

The "vibe" in Urbana is palpable. It's a sense of belonging, of knowing your neighbors, and of looking out for each other. This strong sense of community is a major asset in promoting health and well-being.

Picture the annual Urbana Days festival, a vibrant celebration of community spirit. Families gather, children run wild, and the air is filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the tantalizing aroma of food. This kind of gathering fosters connection, reduces social isolation, and creates a supportive environment for everyone.

The local businesses, like the friendly faces at the Urbana General Store, play a crucial role in fostering this sense of community. They are more than just places to shop; they are hubs of social interaction, where people connect, share stories, and build relationships.

However, it's important to recognize the potential for challenges. The lack of a dedicated community center, for example, could limit opportunities for organized activities and social gatherings. The availability of public transportation is limited, potentially isolating those without access to a vehicle. Addressing these gaps can strengthen the community fabric and promote a healthier lifestyle for all.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Good Stuff**

Urbana is blessed with access to the natural world. The Salamonie River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the beauty of the water. The surrounding farmland provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities.

Imagine a sunny morning, the dew still clinging to the grass. You’re walking along the riverbank, the gentle current of the Salamonie flowing beside you. The air is fresh, the birds are singing, and you feel a sense of peace and tranquility.

The availability of parks and green spaces is a critical factor in promoting a healthy lifestyle. The town currently has a small park, but there is room for expansion and improvement. Investing in outdoor recreation opportunities, such as walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields, can encourage physical activity, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

While Urbana may not have the resources of a larger city, there are opportunities to build a robust network of local wellness programs.

Imagine a community garden, where residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables. This not only promotes healthy eating but also fosters a sense of community and provides opportunities for social interaction.

Partnering with local organizations, such as the Wabash County Health Department, is crucial. They can provide resources and expertise in areas such as asthma management, nutrition education, and physical activity programs.

Consider the potential for offering free or low-cost health screenings, such as blood pressure checks and asthma assessments. These initiatives can help identify health risks early on and connect residents with the resources they need.

**Asthma and Community Health: A Deeper Dive**

Asthma is a significant public health concern, and understanding its prevalence and impact in Urbana is essential. While specific data for 46990 may be limited, we can make some informed observations based on national and regional trends.

Factors that can contribute to asthma prevalence include:

* **Air Quality:** While Urbana benefits from its rural setting, air quality can still be impacted by factors such as pollen, mold, and seasonal allergens.
* **Housing Conditions:** As mentioned earlier, older homes may present challenges related to mold, dust mites, and other indoor allergens.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare, including asthma diagnosis and management, is crucial.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and lack of physical activity can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

**The Asthma Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on our observations, we can begin to formulate a preliminary "Asthma Score" for Urbana. This is not a definitive scientific measurement, but rather a starting point for understanding the community's strengths and weaknesses.

**Strengths:**

* **Strong sense of community:** This can facilitate the implementation of wellness programs and support for individuals with asthma.
* **Access to outdoor recreation:** The availability of parks and green spaces can encourage physical activity and improve air quality.
* **Relatively low cost of living:** This can reduce financial stress, which can exacerbate health problems.

**Challenges:**

* **Limited resources:** The town's small size may limit access to specialized healthcare and wellness programs.
* **Older housing stock:** This may present challenges related to indoor allergens and air quality.
* **Potential for limited access to transportation:** This can hinder access to healthcare and other resources.

**Recommendations: Breathing Life into the Future**

To improve the "Asthma Score" and promote a healthier future for Urbana, we recommend the following:

1. **Community Collaboration:** Foster partnerships between local organizations, healthcare providers, and residents to develop and implement wellness programs.
2. **Housing Improvements:** Advocate for programs that support home maintenance and lead abatement, improving indoor air quality.
3. **Outdoor Recreation Expansion:** Invest in parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for physical activity and outdoor enjoyment.
4. **Health Education:** Offer educational programs on asthma management, healthy eating, and other wellness topics.
5. **Healthcare Access:** Advocate for improved access to healthcare services, including asthma diagnosis and treatment.
6. **Air Quality Monitoring:** Consider implementing a local air quality monitoring system to track potential allergens and pollutants.
7. **Community Garden and Farmers Market:** Support the establishment of a community garden and farmers market to increase access to fresh, healthy food.

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

Urbana, Indiana, has the potential to be a model of community health. By focusing on the strengths of the community, addressing the challenges, and working together, residents can create a place where everyone can breathe easy, live a healthy lifestyle, and thrive. This "Asthma Score" is not just a score; it's a call to action. It's a challenge to build a healthier future, one breath at a time. The air in Urbana is waiting. Let’s fill it with the promise of health, hope, and a vibrant community.