27841, Hassell, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 27841, Hassell, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 27841 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.67 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 27841 would have to travel an average of 12.47 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Martin General Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 316 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 27841, Hassell, North Carolina.

## The Asthma Score: Breathing Easier in Hassell, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27841)

The air hangs thick and heavy in Hassell, North Carolina. Not always, of course. Sometimes, a crisp autumn breeze whips through the towering pines, carrying the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves. Other times, the humidity of a summer afternoon presses down, a tangible weight that settles in your chest, making each breath a little harder. This is the reality for many in Hassell, a small, rural community nestled in the heart of Bertie County, where the Asthma Score – a measure of the community's overall respiratory health – is a vital indicator of well-being.

This isn't just about numbers and statistics. It's about the children racing through sun-dappled yards, the elderly sitting on weathered porches, and the working families striving to build a better life, all breathing the same air. It's about understanding the intricate web of factors – from the environment to the available resources – that contribute to the prevalence of asthma and its impact on the community.

**A Snapshot of Hassell: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Hassell, with its population hovering around 200, is a tight-knit community. The majority of residents are African American, with generations of families rooted in the fertile soil of Bertie County. The landscape is dominated by farmland, vast fields of cotton and soybeans stretching towards the horizon. The Roanoke River, a lifeblood of the region, snakes its way nearby, providing both beauty and, at times, a source of environmental concerns.

The housing stock reflects the community's history. Modest, single-family homes, some well-maintained, others showing the wear and tear of time, line the quiet streets. There's a palpable sense of peace, a slower pace of life that draws people in. But beneath the surface, challenges exist. Poverty rates are higher than the state average, and access to quality healthcare can be a significant hurdle.

**The Asthma Score: Unpacking the Challenges**

The Asthma Score in Hassell is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Air quality, a critical component, is often compromised. Agricultural practices, including pesticide use and seasonal burning of fields, can release irritants into the air. The proximity to the Roanoke River, while beautiful, can also contribute to humidity and mold growth, both triggers for asthma.

Furthermore, the age of the housing stock often means older homes with potential for mold, dust mites, and inadequate ventilation – all common asthma triggers. The reliance on wood-burning stoves for heat, a common practice in rural areas, can also contribute to poor indoor air quality.

**Breathing Deep: The Impact on Daily Life**

Imagine a young child, little Maya, giggling as she chases butterflies in her grandmother's garden. Suddenly, a tightness in her chest, a wheezing sound, and a struggle for air. This is the reality for many children in Hassell. Asthma can disrupt their sleep, limit their playtime, and force them to miss school.

For adults, asthma can impact their ability to work, their participation in community events, and their overall quality of life. The fear of an asthma attack can be a constant companion, a shadow that hangs over daily activities.

**Finding Hope: Local Wellness Programs and Community Initiatives**

Despite the challenges, Hassell is not a community that gives up easily. The spirit of resilience and the deep-rooted sense of community are powerful forces for positive change.

* **The Hassell Community Center:** This is the heart of the community, a place where people gather for events, support each other, and access vital resources. It's a hub for information about asthma management, offering workshops and educational programs.

* **Partnerships with Healthcare Providers:** Local clinics and hospitals are working to improve access to asthma care. They offer free or low-cost asthma screenings, medication assistance programs, and education on proper inhaler technique and asthma action plans.

* **School-Based Programs:** The local schools play a crucial role in educating children and their families about asthma. They provide asthma-friendly environments, train school staff to recognize and respond to asthma symptoms, and offer support to students with asthma.

* **Environmental Awareness:** Efforts are underway to address environmental factors that contribute to asthma. This includes promoting responsible agricultural practices, educating residents about indoor air quality, and advocating for cleaner air initiatives.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Comes Alive**

The true character of Hassell shines through in its people. The warmth of a shared meal at the annual community picnic, the supportive encouragement during a local school play, and the helping hands that reach out in times of need.

Imagine the aroma of fried fish and collard greens wafting from the community center during a Saturday afternoon gathering. Laughter echoes across the lawn as children play games and adults catch up on the latest news. This is the essence of Hassell: a community that thrives on connection and mutual support.

**Outdoor Recreation: Finding Fresh Air and Freedom**

Despite the challenges, Hassell offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital aspect of a healthy lifestyle.

* **The Roanoke River:** The river provides a scenic backdrop for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the beauty of nature. Efforts are underway to ensure the river remains a healthy and accessible resource for the community.

* **Local Parks and Green Spaces:** While resources may be limited, the community strives to maintain green spaces where children can play and families can relax. These spaces provide a much-needed respite from the stresses of daily life.

* **Community Gardens:** These gardens offer a chance to grow fresh, healthy food and connect with nature. They also provide a platform for educating residents about healthy eating habits and the importance of fresh produce.

**Places to Live: Finding a Home in Hassell**

Finding a place to live in Hassell means embracing the rural lifestyle and becoming part of a close-knit community.

* **Single-Family Homes:** The majority of housing options are single-family homes, offering a sense of privacy and space. The price of homes is generally affordable, making Hassell an attractive option for first-time homebuyers.

* **Rental Properties:** Rental options are available, providing flexibility for those who are not yet ready to purchase a home.

* **The Importance of Home Maintenance:** Maintaining a healthy home environment is crucial in Hassell. This includes addressing potential asthma triggers such as mold, dust mites, and poor ventilation.

**The Path Forward: Breathing Easier Together**

Improving the Asthma Score in Hassell is not a quick fix. It requires a sustained, multi-faceted approach that addresses the complex interplay of factors that contribute to asthma.

* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable, quality healthcare is paramount. This includes ensuring that all residents have access to asthma specialists, medication, and ongoing support.

* **Environmental Stewardship:** Protecting the environment is essential. This includes promoting responsible agricultural practices, reducing air pollution, and addressing environmental hazards.

* **Community Education and Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers, management techniques, and available resources is crucial. This includes providing information in multiple formats, including workshops, community events, and online resources.

* **Empowering the Community:** Supporting community-led initiatives is essential. This includes providing resources for the community center, supporting local schools, and empowering residents to advocate for their own health.

The journey towards a healthier Hassell is a shared one. It requires the collaboration of healthcare providers, community leaders, educators, and, most importantly, the residents themselves. It's about creating a community where everyone can breathe easy, where children can run and play without fear, and where the air is filled with the sounds of laughter and the promise of a brighter future. The Asthma Score is more than just a number; it's a reflection of the community's collective health and its commitment to building a healthier, more vibrant Hassell for generations to come.