The People Score for the Asthma Score in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 87.16 percent of the residents in 28651 has some form of health insurance. 43.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.67 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 28651 would have to travel an average of 6.88 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wilkes Regional Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 672 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina
Asthma Score | 8 |
---|---|
People Score | 16 |
Provider Score | 23 |
Hospital Score | 28 |
Travel Score | 46 |
28651 | Millers Creek | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 44.38 | 44.38 | 51.42 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 18.87 | 18.87 | 14.69 |
Medicare | 29.91 | 29.91 | 18.16 |
Medicaid | 18.09 | 18.09 | 17.74 |
TRICARE | 2.92 | 2.92 | 4.27 |
VA | 54.50 | 54.50 | 53.01 |
Percent Insured in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
28651 | Millers Creek | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 98.51 | 98.51 | 94.50 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 79.06 | 79.06 | 84.37 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 98.56 | 98.56 | 99.44 |
## Asthma Score: Breathing Easy in Millers Creek (ZIP Code 28651)
The air hangs thick with the promise of a summer day in Millers Creek, North Carolina. You can smell it – a blend of damp earth, blooming honeysuckle clinging to the porch railings, and the faint, sweet scent of hay drying in the fields. This is 28651, a ZIP code cradled in the embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a place where the pace of life slows down and the rhythm of nature dictates the day. But beneath the idyllic surface, a silent adversary can lurk: asthma. This article dives deep into the community health landscape of Millers Creek, exploring the factors that influence asthma prevalence and offering a snapshot of what it means to breathe easy in this corner of Wilkes County.
**The Lay of the Land: Understanding the Terrain**
Millers Creek, a census-designated place (CDP) nestled between the Yadkin River and the foothills, is a community woven with threads of history and a quiet resilience. The population, hovering around 2,000, is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of residents over the age of 55. This demographic profile is important, as age is a known factor in asthma prevalence, and the aging population requires specific attention to healthcare access and chronic disease management.
The landscape itself plays a crucial role. The mountainous terrain, while visually stunning, can contribute to air quality challenges. Temperature inversions, where warmer air traps cooler air near the ground, can concentrate pollutants, triggering asthma symptoms. The presence of agricultural activity, with its potential for pollen and pesticide exposure, further complicates the equation.
**A Snapshot of the Homes: Where We Live, Where We Breathe**
The homes in Millers Creek are as diverse as the people who inhabit them. You'll find everything from cozy, well-maintained ranch houses with meticulously manicured lawns to sprawling, multi-generational family homes nestled in the woods. The housing stock is a mix of owned and rented properties, and the condition of these dwellings is a critical factor in asthma control.
Imagine a young family, the scent of freshly baked bread wafting from their kitchen, their children playing in the yard. But what if their home, like many older structures, has hidden mold lurking behind the walls, a silent trigger for asthma? Or picture a single senior citizen, enjoying the quiet solitude of their home, unaware that dust mites in their bedding are exacerbating their breathing difficulties. The quality of housing, including proper ventilation, insulation, and the absence of allergens like mold, dust mites, and pet dander, is paramount to respiratory health.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community Connections and Social Determinants**
The heart of Millers Creek beats with a strong sense of community. Neighbors know each other, lend a helping hand, and gather for potlucks and local events. This social cohesion is a powerful asset in promoting community health. When people feel connected and supported, they are more likely to seek medical care, adhere to treatment plans, and adopt healthy lifestyle choices.
However, social determinants of health – the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age – also play a significant role. Access to quality healthcare, including regular check-ups, specialist consultations, and affordable medications, is crucial for managing asthma. Transportation limitations, particularly for those in rural areas, can pose a barrier to accessing medical services. Economic stability, education levels, and access to healthy food options also influence asthma outcomes.
**Breathing Deep: Outdoor Recreation and the Call of the Wild**
Millers Creek offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway provides stunning vistas and hiking trails, offering residents a chance to connect with nature and enjoy physical activity. The Yadkin River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the water.
Picture a family, their faces flushed with exertion, returning from a hike on the trails, the crisp mountain air filling their lungs. Or a group of friends, laughing and splashing in the river, enjoying the freedom of the outdoors. But for individuals with asthma, outdoor activities require careful planning and awareness. Pollen counts, air quality alerts, and the potential for exposure to allergens like poison ivy can all trigger asthma symptoms.
**Local Wellness Programs: Pillars of Support**
While Millers Creek may not have the resources of a major metropolitan area, the community is fortunate to have access to various wellness programs and healthcare services. Wilkes County Health Department plays a vital role in providing public health services, including asthma education and management programs. Local physicians and clinics offer primary care and specialist services, ensuring access to medical expertise.
Imagine a support group meeting at the local community center, where individuals with asthma share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive guidance from healthcare professionals. Or a community health fair, where residents can receive free screenings, learn about asthma triggers, and access information on healthy lifestyle choices. These programs are the cornerstones of community health, providing essential support and resources to those living with asthma.
**The Asthma Score: Putting It All Together**
Assessing the "Asthma Score" for Millers Creek (28651) involves evaluating the interplay of various factors:
* **Demographics:** The aging population necessitates a focus on asthma management in older adults.
* **Housing Quality:** Addressing mold, dust mites, and ventilation issues in homes is critical.
* **Environmental Factors:** Monitoring air quality and educating residents about pollen counts and other triggers is essential.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring access to affordable medical care, including specialists and medications, is paramount.
* **Community Support:** Fostering a strong sense of community and promoting social connections can improve health outcomes.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Encouraging safe outdoor activities while providing education on asthma triggers is vital.
* **Wellness Programs:** Supporting and expanding local asthma education and management programs is crucial.
**Challenges and Opportunities: Charting a Course for the Future**
Millers Creek faces challenges common to many rural communities. Limited access to specialized healthcare, transportation barriers, and economic disparities can hinder asthma management. However, the community also possesses unique strengths: a strong sense of community, a beautiful natural environment, and dedicated healthcare providers.
The future of asthma control in Millers Creek hinges on a collaborative approach. This includes:
* **Strengthening partnerships:** Between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.
* **Expanding education:** On asthma triggers, management strategies, and healthy lifestyle choices.
* **Improving access:** To affordable healthcare, medications, and transportation.
* **Promoting healthy housing:** Through home assessment programs and resources for home improvements.
* **Advocating for clean air:** Through local initiatives and support for environmental protection.
**A Breath of Fresh Air: The Promise of a Healthier Tomorrow**
As the sun sets over the Blue Ridge Mountains, casting long shadows across the fields of Millers Creek, the promise of a healthier tomorrow hangs in the air. By addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities, the community can create an environment where everyone can breathe easy. It's about fostering a community where neighbors look out for each other, where homes are havens of health, and where the joy of a deep, clean breath is accessible to all. It's about building a future where the Asthma Score for Millers Creek reflects not just the absence of disease, but the presence of vibrant, thriving lives, lived to their fullest potential.
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