21782, Sharpsburg, Maryland Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 21782, Sharpsburg, Maryland is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.71 percent of the residents in 21782 has some form of health insurance. 35.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.17 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 21782 would have to travel an average of 15.25 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Meritus Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,212 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 21782, Sharpsburg, Maryland.

## Breathing Easy in Sharpsburg: An Asthma Score for Community Health (ZIP Code 21782)

The air hums with a particular kind of quiet in Sharpsburg, Maryland (ZIP Code 21782). It's a stillness born not of emptiness, but of history, of the slow, deliberate churn of the Antietam Creek, and the watchful presence of South Mountain. This isn't a place that shouts; it whispers, inviting you to listen. But beneath the surface of this idyllic tableau, like the subtle undertow of the creek, flows the current of community health, a current we can measure, assess, and ultimately, improve. Let's take a deep breath and explore the "Asthma Score" for Sharpsburg, a score that reflects the community's overall health and its potential to foster a healthy lifestyle.

**The Baseline: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Sharpsburg, nestled in Washington County, is a small town, a blink-and-you'll-miss-it kind of place. The 2020 census pegged the population at around 700 residents, a figure that likely hasn’t changed dramatically. The demographic profile is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of residents identifying as Black or African American, and a growing Hispanic or Latino population. This relative homogeneity presents both opportunities and challenges. A strong sense of community can thrive in a close-knit environment, but it also requires conscious effort to ensure inclusivity and address the needs of all residents.

The town itself is compact, a walkable grid of streets anchored by the historic Antietam National Battlefield. This proximity to history is both a blessing and a curse. The battlefield, with its rolling fields and wooded areas, provides unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation, but the legacy of the Civil War, and the potential for environmental contamination associated with it, must be considered.

**The Asthma Score: A Multi-Faceted Approach**

We're calling this a "Asthma Score" because asthma, a respiratory illness heavily influenced by environmental factors, serves as a useful proxy for overall community health. A high asthma rate can indicate issues with air quality, access to healthcare, and socioeconomic factors. The score isn't a single number, but a composite, built from various factors:

**1. Environmental Factors: The Air We Breathe and the Land We Live On**

The air in Sharpsburg, on the whole, is relatively clean. The town benefits from its rural setting and the prevailing winds that sweep through the valley. However, specific environmental considerations are crucial.

* **The Battlefield's Influence:** The Antietam National Battlefield, while a source of beauty and recreation, requires careful management. The use of pesticides and herbicides on the fields could potentially impact air quality. The National Park Service’s environmental protocols are crucial, but vigilance is required.
* **Traffic and Commuting:** While Sharpsburg isn't a major traffic hub, the proximity to major roadways like Route 34 and Route 65 means residents are exposed to vehicle emissions. The number of residents who commute to work, and the distance they travel, contribute to the overall air quality burden.
* **Housing Stock and Indoor Air Quality:** The age of the housing stock in Sharpsburg varies. Older homes may have issues with mold, lead paint, and inadequate ventilation, all of which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The presence of wood-burning stoves or fireplaces, while charming, can also contribute to poor indoor air quality, especially during the colder months.

**Vignette:** Imagine a crisp autumn morning in Sharpsburg. The air smells of woodsmoke and fallen leaves. A young mother, Sarah, pushes her toddler in a stroller along Main Street. Her son, diagnosed with mild asthma last year, coughs a little as they pass a home with smoke billowing from its chimney. Sarah worries. Is the air clean enough for her son to play outside? Does the town have adequate resources to help her manage his condition?

**2. Socioeconomic Factors: The Foundation of Health**

Socioeconomic status plays a significant role in community health. Access to healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing are all interconnected.

* **Income and Poverty:** Sharpsburg, like many rural communities, may face challenges related to income inequality. Lower-income families may have limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing, all of which can impact respiratory health.
* **Healthcare Access:** The availability of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals, is critical. The proximity to hospitals and clinics in nearby towns like Hagerstown is a plus, but transportation can be a barrier for some residents.
* **Food Security:** Access to fresh, affordable, and nutritious food is essential for overall health. The presence of grocery stores, farmers' markets, and community gardens in and around Sharpsburg is a positive sign.

**Vignette:** Mr. Jones, a retired veteran, lives on a fixed income. He struggles to afford his asthma medication and healthy groceries. He relies on the local food bank and the occasional free clinic in Hagerstown. He feels isolated and worries about his health, especially during the winter months when his asthma flares up.

**3. Lifestyle Factors: Choices for a Healthy Future**

Lifestyle choices, such as physical activity, smoking habits, and exposure to allergens, significantly impact respiratory health.

* **Outdoor Recreation:** Sharpsburg offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Antietam Battlefield provides miles of walking and biking trails. The Antietam Creek is a haven for fishing and kayaking. Promoting these activities and ensuring accessibility for all residents is crucial.
* **Smoking and Vaping:** Smoking and vaping are significant risk factors for asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Public health campaigns and support programs for quitting smoking are essential.
* **Allergen Exposure:** The prevalence of seasonal allergies, such as pollen and mold, can trigger asthma symptoms. Education about allergen avoidance and management is important.

**Vignette:** A group of teenagers gathers on the banks of the Antietam Creek. They laugh and splash in the water, enjoying the summer sun. One of them, Emily, has asthma. Her inhaler sits in her backpack, ready for use. She knows that exercise can help her manage her condition, but she also knows that she needs to be mindful of her triggers, like pollen and humidity.

**4. Community Resources: The Support System**

The presence of community resources and programs can significantly improve community health.

* **Local Wellness Programs:** Are there local programs promoting healthy eating, exercise, and asthma management? The availability of these resources can make a real difference in the lives of residents.
* **School Health Programs:** Schools play a vital role in educating children about asthma and promoting healthy lifestyles. The presence of school nurses and asthma-friendly policies is crucial.
* **Community Partnerships:** Collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and government agencies is essential for addressing community health needs.

**Vignette:** The Sharpsburg Elementary School holds an annual "Healthy Kids Day." Children participate in fun activities, learn about healthy eating, and receive asthma education. The school nurse, Mrs. Davis, is a familiar face, providing support and guidance to students with asthma and their families.

**Places to Live: A Snapshot of Housing Options**

The type of housing available in Sharpsburg can influence the asthma score.

* **Single-Family Homes:** The majority of homes in Sharpsburg are single-family dwellings, offering space and privacy. However, older homes may require renovations to address potential environmental hazards.
* **Rental Properties:** The availability of affordable rental properties is important for housing diversity. Ensuring that rental units meet health and safety standards is crucial.
* **New Construction:** New construction projects should prioritize energy efficiency, good ventilation, and the use of asthma-friendly building materials.

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

The "neighborhood vibe" is a less quantifiable but equally important aspect of community health. A strong sense of community, social cohesion, and civic engagement can buffer against stress and improve overall well-being.

* **Community Events:** The frequency and accessibility of community events, such as festivals, farmers' markets, and concerts, can foster social connections and create a sense of belonging.
* **Volunteerism:** The level of volunteerism and civic engagement reflects the community's commitment to helping others.
* **Social Support Networks:** Strong social support networks can provide emotional and practical assistance to residents in need.

**Vignette:** The annual Sharpsburg Heritage Festival draws residents from all walks of life. Children play games, adults chat, and the air is filled with the aroma of food and the sounds of music. This event embodies the spirit of community, a spirit that can help residents weather challenges and build a healthier future.

**Improving the Asthma Score: A Call to Action**

Improving the "Asthma Score" for Sharpsburg requires a multi-pronged approach:

* **Prioritize Air Quality:** Advocate for policies that reduce vehicle emissions, promote energy-efficient housing, and protect the environment.
* **Enhance Healthcare Access:** Support programs that provide affordable healthcare, including asthma management services.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage outdoor recreation, healthy eating, and smoking cessation.
* **Strengthen Community Resources:** Invest in local wellness programs, school health initiatives, and community partnerships.
* **Foster a Sense of Community:** Support community events, encourage volunteerism, and promote social cohesion.

Sharpsburg has the potential to be a beacon of community health. By understanding the factors that influence the "Asthma Score" and taking proactive steps to address them, the town can create a healthier, more vibrant, and more resilient community for all its residents. The whispers of Sharpsburg can then become a chorus of health, a testament to the power of community and the importance of breathing easy.