47921, Boswell, Indiana Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 47921, Boswell, Indiana is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.78 percent of the residents in 47921 has some form of health insurance. 42.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.04 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 47921 would have to travel an average of 15.12 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ascension St Vincent Williamsport. In a 20-mile radius, there are 60 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 47921, Boswell, Indiana.

## Boswell's Breath: A Community Health Score for 47921

The wind whips across the endless cornfields surrounding Boswell, Indiana, a constant reminder of the agricultural heart that beats within this small town. But beneath the rural charm, a different kind of wind whispers – the breath of the community, its health, its resilience. We're diving deep into ZIP Code 47921, Boswell, to assess its "Asthma Score" – not a literal medical diagnosis, but a metaphorical measure of the community's overall well-being, focusing on factors that impact respiratory health, a sensitive indicator of environmental and lifestyle influences.

Our score isn’t a simple number; it's a tapestry woven from demographics, access to resources, the very air people breathe, and the choices they make. It's about understanding the lived experience of Boswell residents and identifying the strengths and vulnerabilities that shape their health.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Boswell**

Boswell, population hovering around 800, is a tight-knit community. Driving down Main Street, you see the American flag snapping in the breeze, a testament to the town’s patriotic spirit. The median age skews slightly older than the national average, reflecting a demographic trend seen across rural America. Families have deep roots here, generations connected to the land and the local economy.

This is a predominantly white community, with a relatively low percentage of residents identifying as minorities. The economic landscape is largely shaped by agriculture, with farming families and those employed in related industries forming the backbone of the town. The median household income is modest, reflecting the economic realities of rural life.

**Vignette 1: The Farmer and the Fields**

Old Man Hemmings, his face etched with the wisdom of countless harvests, sits on his porch, overlooking his fields. The scent of freshly turned earth and the distant rumble of a tractor fill the air. He’s lived in Boswell his entire life, watching the seasons change, the crops grow, and the town evolve. He remembers a time when the air was thick with the dust of plowing, the scent of pesticides a constant presence. He’s seen firsthand the impact of agricultural practices on the community's health, the coughs that lingered after a particularly dusty harvest, the subtle changes in breathing that whispered of something more than just a cold.

**The Asthma Score's Lens: Why Respiratory Health Matters**

We use "Asthma Score" as a proxy, a sensitive indicator of environmental and lifestyle factors that affect respiratory health. Asthma, and other respiratory ailments, are often exacerbated by poor air quality, allergens, and lifestyle choices. By examining these factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the community's overall health.

**Places to Live: Homes and Habitats**

The housing stock in Boswell is predominantly single-family homes, many of them well-maintained and reflecting the pride residents take in their properties. The availability of affordable housing is generally good, a factor that can contribute to a sense of stability and community cohesion. However, older homes, common in a town with a long history, may present challenges.

**Vignette 2: The Old House and the Allergens**

Sarah, a young mother, struggles to keep her son's asthma under control. They live in an older home, charming with its creaking floors and wide porch, but also prone to mold and dust mites. The air quality inside is often a battleground, requiring constant vigilance. She diligently cleans, uses air purifiers, and consults with her son's doctor, but the battle against allergens is a constant one. The proximity of fields, while beautiful, also means pollen season is a particularly challenging time.

**Assessing the Score: Key Factors**

* **Air Quality:** The agricultural landscape, while beautiful, presents both opportunities and challenges. The use of pesticides and fertilizers can impact air quality, particularly during spraying seasons. The prevalence of dust from agricultural activities, especially during harvesting, can also trigger respiratory issues. The town's relative lack of industrial activity is a positive factor, but the impact of agricultural practices needs careful consideration.
* **Environmental Factors:** Proximity to agricultural fields, seasonal pollen counts, and the presence of allergens like mold and dust mites within homes all contribute to the "Asthma Score."
* **Lifestyle Choices:** Smoking rates, access to healthy food options, and levels of physical activity play a significant role.
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists (like pulmonologists), and access to prescription medications are crucial.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Income levels, educational attainment, and access to resources all influence health outcomes.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Boswell: A Balancing Act**

Boswell offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities when it comes to a healthy lifestyle.

**Vignette 3: The Morning Run and the Rural Rhythm**

John, a local teacher, rises early, the first light painting the sky. He laces up his running shoes and heads out, the quiet of the morning broken only by the chirping of birds. He runs along the country roads, the air crisp and clean, the vastness of the fields stretching out before him. He knows the benefits of physical activity, the way it clears his head and strengthens his body. He also understands the importance of balance, the need to navigate the realities of rural life, where access to certain amenities might be limited.

**The Score's Components: Diving Deeper**

* **Outdoor Recreation:** The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. The presence of parks and green spaces, even if limited, is a positive factor.
* **Local Wellness Programs:** The availability of fitness classes, community events promoting healthy eating, and educational programs on asthma management and other health issues can significantly improve the "Asthma Score."
* **Access to Healthy Food:** The availability of fresh produce, healthy grocery options, and farmers' markets are crucial. The presence of fast-food restaurants and the prevalence of processed foods can negatively impact the score.
* **Smoking Rates:** High smoking rates can significantly exacerbate respiratory problems. Efforts to promote smoking cessation are essential.
* **Education and Awareness:** Public health campaigns, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives can raise awareness about asthma triggers, healthy lifestyle choices, and available resources.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community Connection**

The sense of community in Boswell is palpable. Neighbors know each other, support each other, and come together for local events. This strong social fabric can positively impact health outcomes, providing a support system and fostering a sense of belonging.

**Vignette 4: The Community Picnic and the Shared Breath**

The annual community picnic is in full swing. Families gather, sharing food, laughter, and stories. Children run and play, their laughter echoing across the park. This is a place where people connect, where friendships are forged, and where the shared experience of community strengthens the bonds that hold Boswell together.

**The Score's Implications: What Does It All Mean?**

The "Asthma Score" for Boswell, 47921, is likely a complex one. It's not a simple pass or fail. It's a reflection of the interplay between environmental factors, lifestyle choices, access to resources, and the strength of the community.

**Potential Strengths:**

* **Strong Community Bonds:** The tight-knit nature of the community can provide a support system for those with respiratory issues.
* **Outdoor Recreation Opportunities:** The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for physical activity, promoting overall health.
* **Relatively Low Industrial Activity:** The lack of heavy industry contributes to cleaner air compared to more urban areas.

**Potential Vulnerabilities:**

* **Agricultural Practices:** The use of pesticides, fertilizers, and dust from agricultural activities can negatively impact air quality.
* **Older Housing Stock:** Older homes may be prone to mold and dust mites, exacerbating respiratory issues.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Rural communities often face challenges in accessing specialized medical care.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Modest incomes can limit access to healthy food options and other resources.

**Improving the Score: A Path Forward**

Improving the "Asthma Score" requires a multi-faceted approach:

* **Advocating for Sustainable Agricultural Practices:** Supporting farmers who adopt practices that minimize pesticide use and reduce dust emissions.
* **Promoting Home Health:** Providing resources and education on mold remediation, dust mite control, and home air quality improvements.
* **Enhancing Healthcare Access:** Supporting local clinics and hospitals, and advocating for telemedicine services to improve access to specialists.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy eating habits, and supporting smoking cessation programs.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and community members to address health challenges.
* **Education and Awareness:** Implementing public health campaigns to raise awareness about asthma triggers, healthy lifestyle choices, and available resources.

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

Boswell, Indiana, is a community with a rich history, a strong sense of identity, and a deep connection to the land. By understanding the factors that impact its "Asthma Score," the community can work together to create a healthier environment for all its residents. This requires a commitment to sustainable practices, a focus on healthy lifestyles, and a dedication to building a strong and supportive community. It's about ensuring that the breath of Boswell is not just the wind across the fields, but the healthy, vibrant breath of a thriving community. The journey towards a better "Asthma Score" is a journey towards a healthier, more resilient Boswell, a place where everyone can breathe easy.