28466, Wallace, North Carolina Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28466, Wallace, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.81 percent of the residents in 28466 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.36 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28466 would have to travel an average of 13.72 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pender Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 360 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28466, Wallace, North Carolina.

## Breathing Easy in Wallace: A Community Health Score for 28466

The air hangs thick and humid in Wallace, North Carolina, a characteristic embrace of the coastal plain. You can almost taste the salt, a whisper of the nearby Atlantic. But for some, this air, this very essence of life, is a battleground. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, can turn a simple walk to the mailbox into a breathless struggle. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a community health issue, a complex tapestry woven from demographics, lifestyle, and access to resources. We’re diving deep into ZIP code 28466, Wallace, to understand the “Asthma Score” – a metaphorical measure of how well this community breathes, thrives, and supports its residents.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Breath of the Community**

Wallace, with its population hovering around 3,800, is a town that feels both familiar and resilient. The demographics paint a picture of a community with deep roots. A significant portion of the population identifies as White, with a substantial Black/African American presence, reflecting the historical fabric of the region. The median household income sits below the national average, highlighting the economic realities that shape daily life. This is crucial because socioeconomic status is a potent predictor of asthma prevalence and severity. Limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing can exacerbate the condition, creating a vicious cycle.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a retired schoolteacher, sitting on her porch swing, the rhythmic creak a soundtrack to her life. She remembers when the air was cleaner, before the increased traffic from the highway and the occasional agricultural spray. She’s lived in Wallace her whole life, witnessed its evolution, and knows the subtle shifts in the air quality. Her grandson, a lively boy of seven, has asthma. She worries constantly, especially during the pollen-heavy spring and the cold, flu-prone winters. This is the reality for many families in Wallace, a constant vigilance against triggers.

**Where We Live: The Homes and the Health of the Neighborhoods**

The housing stock in Wallace is diverse, ranging from charming historic homes with sprawling porches to more modern, modest dwellings. The condition of these homes plays a significant role in respiratory health. Older homes, in particular, can harbor mold, dust mites, and other allergens that trigger asthma attacks.

Picture a quiet street lined with oak trees, their branches reaching towards the sky. The air is still, the sun dappling through the leaves. But inside one of the homes, unseen dangers lurk. A leaky roof, a damp basement, and a lack of proper ventilation contribute to the growth of mold, a silent enemy for those with asthma. This isn’t about fault; it’s about awareness and access to resources. The availability of affordable home repair programs, grants for mold remediation, and educational initiatives on indoor air quality are critical components of improving the community’s “Asthma Score.”

The proximity to agricultural areas, while contributing to the local economy, can also present challenges. Pesticide drift and exposure to agricultural pollutants can trigger asthma symptoms. This underscores the need for stricter regulations, community education on safe practices, and support for farmers who prioritize environmentally friendly methods.

**The Vibe: Community Spirit and Social Support**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial, often overlooked, factor. A strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other, can significantly impact overall health. When people feel connected, they are more likely to seek help when needed, share information, and support each other through difficult times.

Consider the Wallace Fire Department’s annual pancake breakfast, a beloved tradition. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the gathering, the shared laughter, and the feeling of belonging. This sense of community can extend to health. Neighbors can check in on each other, share information about asthma management, and provide emotional support.

Conversely, a lack of social cohesion, feelings of isolation, and limited access to social support networks can negatively impact health outcomes. The community’s “Asthma Score” is directly linked to the strength of its social fabric.

**Breathing Room: Outdoor Recreation and the Pursuit of a Healthy Lifestyle**

Wallace is blessed with natural beauty. The nearby Riverwalk, with its scenic views and walking trails, offers a welcome respite from the stresses of daily life. The opportunities for outdoor recreation are plentiful, from fishing in the Black River to hiking in the nearby Croatan National Forest.

Imagine a young family, the parents pushing a stroller, the toddler running ahead, laughing as he chases butterflies. They’re enjoying the fresh air, the sunshine, and the simple pleasure of being outdoors. But for children with asthma, these seemingly simple activities can be fraught with anxiety. The presence of pollen, the humidity, and even the physical exertion can trigger an attack.

This highlights the need for accessible and inclusive outdoor spaces. Well-maintained parks, walking trails with designated areas for people with respiratory issues, and educational programs about asthma management are essential. The community’s “Asthma Score” is improved when outdoor recreation is both enjoyable and safe for all residents.

**The Wellness Web: Local Programs and Resources**

The availability of local wellness programs and resources is a critical component of improving the community’s “Asthma Score.” This includes access to quality healthcare, asthma education programs, and support groups.

Wallace has a number of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists. However, access to specialized care, particularly for children with asthma, can be a challenge. The availability of affordable medications, inhalers, and nebulizers is also a concern.

Imagine a mother struggling to afford her child’s asthma medication. The financial burden adds to the stress and anxiety, potentially leading to poor asthma control. This underscores the need for programs that provide financial assistance, medication assistance programs, and access to affordable healthcare.

The local health department plays a crucial role in providing asthma education programs, offering free asthma screenings, and connecting residents with resources. Community health workers, who are trusted members of the community, can provide culturally sensitive education and support.

**Specifics for Wallace: What Needs Improvement?**

The “Asthma Score” for 28466 can be improved by addressing several key areas:

* **Improved Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to specialists, particularly pediatric pulmonologists, and ensuring affordable access to medications and equipment. Telemedicine options could bridge the gap for those in rural areas.
* **Enhanced Asthma Education:** Implementing comprehensive asthma education programs in schools, community centers, and healthcare settings. These programs should focus on asthma triggers, medication management, and emergency preparedness.
* **Home Environment Improvements:** Providing financial assistance and resources for home repairs, mold remediation, and improved indoor air quality.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Encouraging physical activity, healthy eating habits, and smoking cessation programs.
* **Strengthening Community Support:** Fostering a strong sense of community, providing peer support groups, and connecting residents with social services.
* **Advocating for Environmental Protection:** Working with local authorities to reduce air pollution from agricultural practices and other sources.

**The Future: Breathing Easier in Wallace**

The journey to improve the “Asthma Score” in Wallace is ongoing. It requires a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and residents. It demands a commitment to addressing the social determinants of health, recognizing that asthma is not just a medical condition, but a reflection of the community's overall well-being.

Imagine a future where Mrs. Johnson’s grandson can run and play freely, without the fear of an asthma attack. Where the air is cleaner, the homes are healthier, and the community is united in its commitment to the health and well-being of all its residents. This is the vision, the aspiration, for Wallace. It's a vision of a community where everyone can breathe easy, where the air is filled not just with the scent of salt and the whisper of the wind, but with the promise of a healthier, brighter future. The “Asthma Score” in 28466 is not just a number; it’s a reflection of the heart and soul of Wallace, a measure of its ability to care for its own, to nurture its children, and to breathe together as a community.