47170, Scottsburg, Indiana Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 47170, Scottsburg, Indiana is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.85 percent of the residents in 47170 has some form of health insurance. 42.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 47170 would have to travel an average of 1.88 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Scott Memorial Health. In a 20-mile radius, there are 628 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 47170, Scottsburg, Indiana.

## The Breath of Scottsburg: Unpacking Asthma's Grip and Unlocking Community Health in 47170

The air in Scottsburg, Indiana, hangs heavy with the scent of freshly cut hay, the distant rumble of a semi-truck on I-65, and the promise of a small-town life. But for some, that air isn't just a sensory experience; it's a battleground. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, can transform a simple breath into a struggle, impacting every facet of life, from school days to weekend adventures. This is the reality for residents of ZIP Code 47170, and understanding the nuances of asthma within this community is the first step toward fostering a healthier, more vibrant Scottsburg.

**The Scorecard: Gauging Asthma's Impact**

We're not talking about a simple checklist here. This "Asthma Score" is a deep dive, a community health assessment that paints a picture of asthma prevalence and its impact on the lives of those in 47170. It's about understanding the environmental factors, the social determinants of health, and the resources available to mitigate the disease and empower residents to breathe easier.

**Demographics: A Snapshot of the Scottsburg Population**

Before we can address asthma, we need to understand the people it affects. ZIP Code 47170, nestled in Scott County, is a tapestry woven with threads of rural charm and evolving demographics. The U.S. Census Bureau paints a picture of a predominantly white population, with a growing Hispanic/Latino community. Families are the backbone of Scottsburg, with a significant percentage of households including children. This is crucial because asthma often manifests in childhood, making schools and playgrounds key areas for intervention.

The median household income in 47170 is a little below the national average. This financial reality can significantly impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing – all factors that can influence asthma control. We need to consider the potential for food deserts, where access to fresh produce is limited, and the prevalence of substandard housing, which can harbor mold and dust mites, common asthma triggers.

**Places to Live: Where the Air We Breathe Takes Shape**

The physical environment of Scottsburg plays a significant role in asthma prevalence. The town's layout, with its mix of older homes and newer developments, presents a diverse range of housing conditions.

Imagine the weathered clapboard houses on South Main Street, their charm sometimes masking the potential for moisture and mold growth. Picture the newer subdivisions on the outskirts, with their manicured lawns and the potential for pesticide use, another asthma trigger. Then there are the mobile home parks, offering affordable housing but sometimes facing challenges with proper ventilation and maintenance.

The proximity to agricultural land is another factor. Farmers' fields, while essential to the local economy, can contribute to air pollution through pesticide spraying and seasonal pollen release. The presence of industrial facilities, while providing jobs, can also release pollutants that exacerbate asthma symptoms.

**Vignette: The School Bus Stop**

Little Maria, her bright red backpack slung over her shoulder, waits at the bus stop on a crisp autumn morning. The air is thick with the scent of burning leaves, a common practice in the fall. Maria's mother, a single parent working two jobs, worries. Maria has asthma, and the smoke from the leaves always triggers her cough. She knows the importance of Maria's inhaler, but sometimes, the cost of the medication feels like a burden. The school bus arrives, and Maria boards, clutching her inhaler close. This scene, repeated across Scottsburg, highlights the intersection of environmental factors, socioeconomic challenges, and the daily realities of living with asthma.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community Connection and Social Support**

The "vibe" of Scottsburg is one of close-knit communities, where neighbors know each other and support each other. This social fabric is a powerful asset in the fight against asthma. Strong social connections can foster a sense of belonging and provide support networks for families dealing with chronic illnesses.

Imagine the annual Scottsburg Heritage Days festival, a celebration of local history and culture. This event, while joyful, can also expose individuals with asthma to potential triggers like dust, pollen, and smoke from food vendors. The community's response to these events, the availability of designated "safe zones" for those with sensitivities, and the awareness of asthma triggers within the community are crucial indicators of its health.

**Vignette: The Little League Game**

The crack of the bat, the cheers of the crowd, the smell of hotdogs – a typical summer evening at the Little League field. Little Timmy, a star pitcher, has asthma. His parents, aware of the potential for exertion-induced asthma, have his inhaler ready. They've also talked to the coach, who understands the importance of rest and avoiding triggers. The community's acceptance and understanding of Timmy's condition, the availability of a first-aid kit, and the willingness of the other parents to support Timmy all contribute to a safer, more inclusive environment.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easy in the Great Outdoors**

Scottsburg offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking trails in the nearby state parks to the local parks and playgrounds. However, for individuals with asthma, these activities can present challenges.

Consider the dusty trails of Hardy Lake, where pollen and allergens can be prevalent. Imagine the playground at Ward Park, where mold might thrive in damp conditions. The availability of information about pollen counts, air quality, and the presence of potential triggers in these recreational areas is essential.

**Vignette: The Bike Ride**

Sarah, a teenager with asthma, loves to bike. She and her friends often cycle along the Muscatatuck River. Before each ride, Sarah checks the air quality index on her phone. She carries her inhaler and knows the warning signs of an asthma attack. Her friends are supportive and understand her needs. This scene illustrates the importance of education, self-management, and the role of friends and family in enabling individuals with asthma to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.

**Local Wellness Programs: Resources and Support**

The presence of local wellness programs is a critical component of the Asthma Score. Does Scottsburg have access to:

* **Asthma education programs:** Are there programs offered by healthcare providers, schools, or community organizations that teach individuals and families about asthma management, trigger avoidance, and medication use?
* **Support groups:** Do support groups exist where individuals with asthma and their families can connect, share experiences, and offer mutual support?
* **Healthcare access:** Is there access to affordable healthcare, including primary care physicians, specialists, and respiratory therapists?
* **School-based programs:** Are schools implementing asthma-friendly policies, such as allowing students to carry and use their inhalers and providing asthma education for staff and students?
* **Community health initiatives:** Are there community-wide initiatives aimed at improving air quality, promoting healthy lifestyles, and reducing asthma triggers?

**Vignette: The Doctor's Office**

Dr. Evans, a local pediatrician, sees a steady stream of children with asthma. She emphasizes the importance of personalized asthma action plans, regular check-ups, and proper medication use. She partners with the school nurse to ensure that children with asthma are supported in the classroom. She also advocates for community-wide initiatives to improve air quality and promote healthy living. This scene highlights the crucial role of healthcare providers in managing asthma and advocating for the health of the community.

**The Score: A Call to Action**

The "Asthma Score" for Scottsburg, 47170, is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment, a snapshot of the community's health that should evolve over time. By understanding the demographics, the environmental factors, the social determinants of health, and the resources available, we can identify areas for improvement and implement targeted interventions.

The score is a call to action. It's a call for:

* **Increased awareness:** Educating the community about asthma, its triggers, and its management.
* **Improved access to care:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable healthcare, including asthma specialists and medications.
* **Environmental improvements:** Addressing environmental factors that contribute to asthma, such as air pollution, mold, and allergens.
* **Community collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government to create a healthier environment for all.
* **Empowerment:** Providing individuals with asthma and their families with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to manage their condition and live full, active lives.

The goal is not just to reduce the prevalence of asthma but to create a community where everyone can breathe easy, where children can run and play without fear, and where the air itself is a source of health and vitality. The breath of Scottsburg can be a symbol of resilience, a testament to the power of community, and a promise of a healthier future for all its residents. This is the true measure of the Asthma Score.