38922, Coffeeville, Mississippi Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 38922, Coffeeville, Mississippi is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.88 percent of the residents in 38922 has some form of health insurance. 56.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.85 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 38922 would have to travel an average of 15.08 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, University Of Mississippi Medical Center- Grenada. In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 38922, Coffeeville, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easy in Coffeeville (ZIP Code 38922)

The Mississippi sun, a relentless painter, brushes gold across the rolling hills that cradle Coffeeville, a town where the air hangs thick with the scent of damp earth and the promise of a slow, deliberate life. But for some, this idyllic tableau is marred by a silent enemy: asthma. In ZIP Code 38922, the fight for breath is a daily reality, a challenge woven into the fabric of community health. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a story about resilience, resourcefulness, and the ongoing effort to build a healthier Coffeeville, one breath at a time.

**Understanding the Terrain: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Before we delve into the specifics of asthma prevalence, let's get our bearings. Coffeeville, nestled in Yalobusha County, is a town where the echoes of history resonate in the brick facades of its downtown and the stories whispered on front porches. The population, hovering around 900 souls, is a tapestry woven with threads of long-standing families and newcomers seeking a slower pace. The demographics tell a story of a community grappling with economic challenges. Median household income is significantly lower than the state average, and a substantial portion of the population lives below the poverty line. This economic reality often translates to limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing – factors that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

The town itself is compact, a collection of houses, churches, and the occasional business, all clustered around the central square. The landscape is a mix of rolling farmland, dense woodlands, and the meandering Tallahatchie River. The air, while often clear and crisp, can be laden with allergens, particularly during the spring and fall when pollen counts surge. The presence of agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can also contribute to air quality concerns, with pesticide use and dust from tilling fields potentially triggering asthma attacks.

**The Asthma Score: A Window into Respiratory Health**

While precise asthma prevalence data for ZIP Code 38922 is difficult to pinpoint without specific epidemiological studies, we can paint a picture using available data and local observations. We know that asthma rates in Mississippi are consistently higher than the national average. Factors like poverty, poor housing conditions (mold, dust mites), and limited access to healthcare all contribute to this disparity.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a lifelong resident of Coffeeville. Her weathered hands, etched with the wisdom of years, often clutch a small inhaler. She remembers a time when breathing was a constant struggle, a weight on her chest that stole the joy from simple pleasures. Her home, a modest structure built decades ago, is a testament to the resilience of the community. But the cracks in the walls and the dampness that sometimes creeps in during the rainy season are potential breeding grounds for mold, a known asthma trigger.

Then there's young Michael, a vibrant boy with a contagious laugh, who loves to run and play. But his energy is often curtailed by the wheezing that signals an asthma attack. His parents, working hard to make ends meet, struggle to afford the medications and doctor visits he needs. They rely on the local clinic, a lifeline for many in the community, but access to specialized respiratory care can be limited.

These are not isolated cases. They represent the reality for many families in Coffeeville, where asthma is a persistent challenge. The "Asthma Score" for 38922 would likely reflect these realities: a score influenced by poverty, housing conditions, access to healthcare, and environmental factors.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Strengths and Challenges**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Coffeeville is one of warmth and resilience. People look out for each other. Neighbors help neighbors. This sense of community is a crucial asset in the fight against asthma.

Picture the annual town picnic, a vibrant gathering where the aroma of barbecue mingles with the laughter of children. It's a chance for families to connect, share stories, and support each other. But for children with asthma, the outdoor setting can be a double-edged sword. While fresh air is beneficial, exposure to allergens like pollen and grass can trigger attacks.

The local churches play a vital role in community life, providing social support, food assistance, and a sense of belonging. They often serve as hubs for information and resources, connecting residents with healthcare providers and social services.

However, the neighborhood also faces challenges. The lack of sidewalks and safe walking routes limits opportunities for outdoor exercise, a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. The absence of a dedicated park or recreational facility restricts access to safe spaces for children to play and adults to exercise.

**Breathing Easier: Local Wellness Programs and Initiatives**

Despite the challenges, Coffeeville is not standing still. There are pockets of hope, initiatives that are slowly but surely making a difference in the fight against asthma.

The local clinic, often the first point of contact for residents, is striving to improve asthma management. They may offer educational programs for patients and families, teaching them how to identify triggers, manage medications, and recognize the signs of an asthma attack.

The schools play a critical role in educating children and their families about asthma. School nurses are often on the front lines, providing support and administering medications. They may work with parents to develop asthma action plans, ensuring that children receive the care they need during school hours.

Local community organizations may be working to raise awareness about asthma and advocate for improved healthcare access. They might organize health fairs, provide educational materials, and connect residents with resources.

Imagine a community garden, a space where residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables, promoting healthy eating habits and reducing reliance on processed foods. This initiative could also provide a safe outdoor space for exercise and social interaction.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural Beauty**

Coffeeville is blessed with natural beauty. The rolling hills, the meandering river, and the dense woodlands offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.

The Tallahatchie River, a lifeline for the community, offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the water. Hiking trails, if developed, could provide a safe and accessible way for residents to exercise and connect with nature.

However, access to these outdoor spaces is not always easy. The lack of infrastructure, such as walking paths and bike lanes, limits opportunities for safe and accessible recreation. The absence of well-maintained parks and playgrounds restricts children's access to safe spaces for play.

Imagine a group of volunteers clearing a walking trail through a nearby wooded area, creating a safe and accessible space for residents to exercise and enjoy the outdoors. This initiative could not only promote physical health but also foster a sense of community pride and ownership.

**Places to Live: Housing and the Asthma Connection**

The quality of housing in Coffeeville is a significant factor in the asthma equation. Older homes, often with poor ventilation and inadequate insulation, can be breeding grounds for mold, dust mites, and other allergens.

Imagine a family living in a home with leaky pipes and peeling paint. The dampness and mold can trigger asthma attacks, making it difficult for the children to breathe.

Addressing housing issues is crucial in the fight against asthma. This could involve:

* **Home repair programs:** Providing assistance to low-income homeowners to address issues such as leaky roofs, plumbing problems, and mold remediation.
* **Weatherization programs:** Improving insulation and ventilation to reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality.
* **Education and awareness:** Educating residents about the importance of maintaining their homes and identifying potential asthma triggers.

**A Call to Action: Building a Healthier Future**

The fight against asthma in Coffeeville is an ongoing journey. It requires a multi-faceted approach, addressing the complex interplay of environmental factors, economic challenges, and access to healthcare.

Here's what the community can do:

* **Advocate for improved healthcare access:** Support the local clinic and advocate for increased funding for healthcare services.
* **Promote healthy housing initiatives:** Support home repair programs, weatherization efforts, and educate residents about asthma triggers in the home.
* **Enhance outdoor recreation opportunities:** Advocate for the development of parks, walking trails, and other recreational facilities.
* **Foster community partnerships:** Collaborate with local organizations, schools, and churches to raise awareness about asthma and promote healthy lifestyles.
* **Empower individuals:** Provide education and resources to help individuals manage their asthma and live healthier lives.

Coffeeville is a town with a heart, a community that cares. By working together, they can breathe easier, creating a healthier future for all its residents. The "Asthma Score" for 38922 can improve, not just with numbers, but with the collective spirit of a community determined to overcome challenges and build a brighter tomorrow. The Mississippi sun will continue to paint its gold, but the air in Coffeeville will be a little easier to breathe.