28371, Parkton, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.34 percent of the residents in 28371 has some form of health insurance. 39.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.94 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28371 would have to travel an average of 9.11 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,362 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina.

## The Breath of Parkton: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 28371

The air in Parkton, North Carolina, a town nestled in the heart of Robeson County, carries a certain weight. It's the weight of history, of agriculture, of a community that has weathered storms both literal and figurative. And for some residents, that weight is intensified by something else: the struggle to breathe. This article delves into the community health landscape of Parkton, specifically focusing on the asthma score within the 28371 ZIP code, exploring the factors that contribute to this respiratory challenge and highlighting the vibrant spirit of a town striving for a healthier tomorrow.

The asthma score, a composite measure reflecting asthma prevalence, hospitalizations, and related factors, acts as a vital sign for a community's respiratory health. In 28371, understanding this score isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding the lives lived within the town's boundaries, the challenges faced, and the opportunities for positive change.

**The Tapestry of 28371: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Parkton, a town of roughly 500 residents, unfolds like a well-loved quilt. The fabric is woven with threads of diverse backgrounds, primarily a blend of Black, White, and Native American communities. The town's history is etched into its very soil, with roots in agriculture and a strong sense of community. The landscape itself is a mix of rolling farmland, punctuated by stands of towering pines and the gentle flow of the Lumber River, a vital artery that nourishes the land and the spirit of the people.

Imagine a late afternoon, the sun casting long shadows across the fields. A young family, their laughter echoing through the air, are tending their small vegetable garden, a vibrant splash of green against the backdrop of golden corn stalks. This scene, a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the community, is a common sight in Parkton. But it also highlights a potential contributing factor to the asthma score: the proximity to agricultural practices. Pesticides and other agricultural chemicals, while essential for crop production, can potentially trigger asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals.

The housing stock in 28371 is a mix of older, well-established homes, some with generations of family history embedded in their walls, and newer, more modern constructions. The age of a home can be a factor in respiratory health, with older homes potentially harboring allergens like dust mites, mold, and lead paint, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The presence of these allergens, coupled with the humid climate of North Carolina, can create an environment conducive to respiratory distress.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Place and Belonging**

The heart of Parkton beats in its people. The town's small size fosters a strong sense of community, where neighbors know each other, look out for each other, and share a deep-rooted connection to the land. This connection is palpable in the local businesses, the small-town gatherings, and the unwavering support during times of need.

Picture the annual Parkton Day celebration. The air is filled with the aroma of barbecue, the sound of laughter, and the vibrant energy of the community coming together. Children chase each other through the park, their faces lit up with joy. This sense of camaraderie, this feeling of belonging, is a crucial element in building a healthier community. A strong social network can provide support, reduce stress, and encourage healthy behaviors, all of which can positively impact the asthma score.

However, the very fabric of this close-knit community can also present challenges. Limited access to resources, like specialized medical care or healthy food options, can exacerbate existing health disparities. The economic realities of the area, with a significant portion of the population facing financial constraints, can limit access to quality healthcare, preventative care, and healthy lifestyle choices.

**Breathing Easier: Outdoor Recreation and the Pursuit of Wellness**

Despite the challenges, Parkton is not a town that succumbs to adversity. It is a town that embraces the beauty of its natural surroundings and actively seeks ways to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

The Lumber River, a designated North Carolina Natural and Scenic River, is a jewel in Parkton's crown. The river offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, providing a connection to nature and a chance for outdoor recreation. Imagine a crisp autumn morning, the mist rising off the river as a kayaker glides silently through the water, the only sound the gentle dip of the paddle. These outdoor activities, when accessible and safe, can offer physical and mental health benefits, potentially reducing stress and improving respiratory health.

However, the accessibility of these outdoor activities is crucial. The presence of well-maintained parks, walking trails, and safe spaces for children to play is essential. The town's commitment to maintaining these spaces, coupled with educational initiatives about the benefits of outdoor recreation, can play a significant role in improving the asthma score.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Parkton is not alone in its fight for better health. The town benefits from the support of Robeson County, which offers a variety of local wellness programs designed to address the health needs of the community. These programs can range from asthma education and management workshops to access to affordable healthcare and healthy food initiatives.

Imagine a community health worker visiting a home, providing education on asthma triggers and management techniques. They might demonstrate proper inhaler usage, provide information on environmental controls, and connect families with resources like low-cost medications. This kind of personalized, community-based care can make a profound difference in the lives of those living with asthma.

The success of these programs hinges on their accessibility and their ability to address the specific needs of the community. The programs must be culturally sensitive, offered in multiple languages, and tailored to the unique challenges faced by the residents of 28371.

**The Challenges and the Call to Action**

The asthma score in 28371, while a complex measure, serves as a crucial indicator of the community's respiratory health. Several factors likely contribute to the score: the presence of agricultural chemicals, the age and condition of housing, limited access to healthcare, and socioeconomic disparities.

But the story of Parkton is not one of despair. It is a story of resilience, of community spirit, and of a town that is actively working to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

The path forward requires a multi-pronged approach:

* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Collaboration between local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is crucial. This includes sharing data, coordinating resources, and developing targeted interventions.
* **Promoting Environmental Health:** Addressing environmental triggers like allergens and air pollution is essential. This could involve initiatives to improve housing conditions, reduce agricultural chemical exposure, and promote clean air practices.
* **Expanding Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to quality, affordable healthcare, including asthma specialists and preventative care, is paramount.
* **Investing in Education and Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers, management techniques, and healthy lifestyle choices is critical. This includes providing resources in multiple languages and tailoring programs to the specific needs of the community.
* **Fostering a Healthy Lifestyle:** Promoting outdoor recreation, healthy eating habits, and stress management techniques can improve overall health and reduce asthma symptoms.

**The Future of Breathing in Parkton**

The future of Parkton's respiratory health lies in the hands of its people. By understanding the challenges, embracing the opportunities, and working together, the community can create a healthier environment for all. Imagine a future where the air in Parkton is cleaner, where children can play freely without fear of asthma attacks, and where every resident has the opportunity to breathe easy. This is the vision, the aspiration, and the call to action for the community of 28371. The breath of Parkton, once burdened, can become a symbol of resilience, hope, and a community's unwavering commitment to a healthier tomorrow.