Asthma Score

41604, Beaver, Kentucky Asthma Score People Score

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Health Scores

People Score in 41604, Beaver, Kentucky

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 41604, Beaver, Kentucky is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 41604 has some form of health insurance. 66.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.05 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 41604 would have to travel an average of 10.86 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pikeville Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 429 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 41604, Beaver, Kentucky.

Health Scores in 41604, Beaver, Kentucky

Asthma Score 73
People Score 61
Provider Score 91
Hospital Score 41
Travel Score 32

Insurance Types

41604 Beaver Kentucky
Employer Insurance 39.48 39.48 52.40
Direct Purchase Insurance 7.56 7.56 11.64
Medicare 14.76 14.76 19.32
Medicaid 51.48 51.48 26.17
TRICARE 5.17 5.17 2.79
VA 40.22 40.22 52.26

Percent Insured in 41604, Beaver, Kentucky

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

41604 Beaver Kentucky
Under 19 100.00 100.00 95.89
Adults (19-64 years) 100.00 100.00 91.96
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 100.00 99.72

People Score Review of 41604, Beaver, Kentucky

## Breathing Easy in Beaver: Unlocking Community Health in 41604

The air hangs thick and humid over Beaver, Kentucky. It’s the kind of humidity that settles deep in your lungs, a familiar weight for many residents of this Appalachian community. But for those battling asthma, that weight can become a crushing burden. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a community health challenge, woven into the very fabric of life in 41604. Understanding the complexities of asthma in Beaver – the triggers, the struggles, and the potential for positive change – is the first step towards building a healthier, more resilient community.

**The Lay of the Land: A Breath of Fresh Air (and Sometimes, Not)**

Beaver, nestled in the heart of Floyd County, is a place of steep hillsides, winding creeks, and a palpable sense of connection. The homes, a mix of well-kept bungalows and weathered farmhouses, cling to the slopes, often overlooking the Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River. The landscape, while breathtaking, also presents challenges. The narrow valleys can trap pollutants, and the prevalence of wood-burning stoves for heat in the colder months can exacerbate respiratory issues.

Driving through the winding roads, you see the rhythm of life in Beaver. Children chase fireflies in the twilight, their laughter echoing through the hollows. Neighbors chat on porches, sharing stories and the latest news. The local Dollar General hums with activity, a hub for groceries, household essentials, and the occasional over-the-counter asthma medication.

The demographics of 41604 paint a picture of a close-knit community, but one facing significant health disparities. The population skews older, with a higher percentage of residents over 65 compared to the state average. Poverty rates are elevated, impacting access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing. This confluence of factors creates a fertile ground for asthma to flourish.

**The Asthma Score: A Community's Respiratory Reality**

While a formal "Asthma Score" doesn't exist in the way we might think, the reality of asthma's impact on Beaver is quantifiable through various indicators. The prevalence of asthma in Floyd County is likely higher than the national average, mirroring trends seen in other Appalachian communities. This is due to a combination of factors:

* **Environmental Triggers:** The air quality, particularly during the winter months, can be a significant trigger. Mold, dust mites, and pet dander within homes also contribute.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Limited access to healthcare, including regular check-ups and specialist consultations, can lead to under-diagnosed and poorly managed asthma. The cost of medications and inhalers can be a significant burden.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking rates may be higher than average, both within the community and in homes with children. Diet and exercise habits can also play a role in overall respiratory health.

**Breathing Deep: The Daily Struggles**

Imagine Sarah, a single mother working two jobs to make ends meet. Her son, eight-year-old Ethan, has asthma. A simple cold can quickly escalate into a terrifying asthma attack, requiring a trip to the emergency room, a strain on their already stretched finances. Sarah worries constantly about Ethan's exposure to triggers, the dust in their older home, the pollen in the spring, the wood smoke wafting from neighbors' chimneys. She navigates the healthcare system, fighting for prescriptions and appointments, all while trying to provide a stable and healthy environment for her son.

Consider Mr. Johnson, a retired coal miner, his lungs scarred by years of exposure to dust. He's been battling asthma for years, and the simplest exertion leaves him gasping for breath. He relies on his inhaler and struggles to participate in the community activities he once enjoyed, like fishing in the Levisa Fork. He feels isolated, his quality of life diminished by his condition.

These are not isolated cases. They are the faces of asthma in Beaver, the stories that underscore the urgent need for community-based solutions.

**Places to Live, Places to Breathe: Housing and the Home Environment**

The quality of housing in 41604 directly impacts respiratory health. Older homes, often with inadequate ventilation and insulation, can harbor mold and dust mites, common asthma triggers. The presence of lead paint, a legacy of older construction, can also exacerbate respiratory problems.

The availability of affordable, healthy housing is a critical need. Initiatives to assist homeowners with home repairs, weatherization, and mold remediation could significantly improve the indoor air quality in many homes. Encouraging the adoption of HEPA filters, particularly in bedrooms, can also provide relief.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Building a Supportive Ecosystem**

The sense of community in Beaver is both a strength and a challenge. While neighbors often look out for each other, the close-knit nature of the community can sometimes make it difficult to address sensitive issues like smoking or the use of wood-burning stoves.

Creating a supportive ecosystem requires open communication and education. Community health workers, trusted members of the community, can play a vital role in educating residents about asthma triggers, management strategies, and available resources. They can also act as a bridge between residents and healthcare providers, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Despite the challenges, there are glimmers of hope. Local organizations and healthcare providers are beginning to address the asthma burden in Beaver.

* **The Floyd County Health Department:** This is a crucial resource, offering asthma education, screenings, and referrals to specialists. They can also advocate for policy changes that improve air quality.
* **Community Health Centers:** These centers provide affordable primary care, including asthma management services. They can also connect patients with resources like financial assistance for medications.
* **Schools:** School nurses play a vital role in managing students' asthma, educating teachers and staff, and ensuring that students have access to their medication and emergency care.

**The Power of Outdoor Recreation: Finding Freedom in the Fresh Air**

Despite the challenges of air quality, the natural beauty of Beaver offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.

* **Hiking and Walking Trails:** Developing and maintaining accessible trails would encourage physical activity, which can improve lung function and reduce asthma symptoms.
* **Parks and Green Spaces:** Creating and maintaining parks and green spaces provide safe and accessible areas for children to play and adults to relax.
* **Community Gardens:** Promoting community gardens can provide access to fresh, healthy produce, which can improve overall health and reduce asthma triggers related to poor diet.

**A Breath of Fresh Air: A Vision for the Future**

Building a healthier community in 41604 requires a multi-faceted approach. It's about:

* **Empowering Individuals:** Providing asthma education, self-management training, and access to affordable healthcare.
* **Improving the Environment:** Addressing air quality issues, promoting healthy housing, and reducing exposure to triggers.
* **Strengthening the Community:** Fostering a culture of support, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
* **Advocating for Policy Change:** Supporting policies that improve air quality, expand access to healthcare, and address the social determinants of health.

Imagine a future where Ethan can run and play without fear of an asthma attack. Where Mr. Johnson can breathe easy and enjoy his retirement. Where the community of Beaver works together to create a healthier, more vibrant place to live. This is the vision that drives the effort to improve community health in 41604. It's a vision that requires commitment, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It's a vision worth fighting for, one breath at a time.

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Health Scores Near 41604, Beaver, Kentucky

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