11754, Kings Park, New York Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 11754, Kings Park, New York is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.39 percent of the residents in 11754 has some form of health insurance. 25.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.83 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 11754 would have to travel an average of 2.01 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, St Catherine Of Siena Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 47,290 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 11754, Kings Park, New York.

## Kings Park's Breath of Fresh Air: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 11754

The salt-laced wind whips off the Long Island Sound, carrying with it the scent of pine from the Nissequogue River State Park. This is Kings Park, New York, ZIP code 11754. A town often described as "charming," "family-friendly," and "close-knit." But beneath the surface of quaint Main Street shops and the vibrant hues of autumn leaves, lies a critical question: How healthy are the lungs of Kings Park? This isn't just a rhetorical query; it's a call to action. We're diving deep into the community health landscape of 11754, focusing on a crucial indicator – asthma – and exploring the factors that shape its prevalence and impact.

We'll be crafting our own "Asthma Score" for Kings Park, not a numerical grade, but a comprehensive understanding of the forces at play, the challenges faced, and the opportunities that exist to improve respiratory health for all residents.

**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Kings Park, like many Long Island communities, is a tapestry woven from diverse threads. According to recent data, the population hovers around 17,000, with a predominantly white demographic, but with growing Hispanic and Asian communities. The median household income is comfortably above the national average, suggesting a generally stable economic environment. However, this doesn't paint the whole picture. Income inequality, a subtle yet pervasive issue, can affect access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing – all factors that can influence asthma rates.

The town's geographical layout is also crucial. Kings Park is characterized by a mix of residential areas, from cozy bungalows to sprawling colonial homes. The presence of the Nissequogue River State Park, with its extensive trails and open spaces, is a major asset. But the proximity to the Long Island Sound also means potential exposure to allergens carried by the wind, such as pollen and mold spores.

**The Asthma Score: Unpacking the Puzzle Pieces**

To understand the asthma landscape, we need to examine the key players.

* **Air Quality:** This is paramount. Kings Park benefits from its location, generally escaping the worst of the industrial pollution found closer to New York City. However, the town is still subject to pollutants from vehicle emissions, particularly along heavily trafficked roads like Route 25A. The presence of older homes, which may have outdated heating and cooling systems, can also contribute to indoor air quality issues.

Imagine a young family, living in a charming, but older, home near the heart of Kings Park. The scent of freshly baked bread from the local bakery mingles with the faint, almost imperceptible, smell of car exhaust. Their child, prone to asthma, might be particularly vulnerable to these subtle irritants. The Asthma Score in this scenario would be negatively impacted by the potential exposure.

* **Housing Conditions:** The quality of housing is a critical determinant of respiratory health. Homes with mold, mildew, and dust mites can trigger asthma attacks. The age of the housing stock in Kings Park, while contributing to the town's character, also presents potential challenges.

Picture a single mother, working tirelessly to maintain her older home. She diligently cleans, but a persistent leak in the basement has fostered a hidden mold problem. Her child's asthma flares up frequently, disrupting school and impacting their quality of life. This scenario directly lowers the Asthma Score.

* **Access to Healthcare:** Having access to prompt and quality healthcare is essential for managing asthma. Kings Park benefits from its proximity to hospitals and medical facilities in neighboring towns. However, factors like insurance coverage, transportation challenges, and language barriers can still create obstacles for some residents.

Consider an elderly resident, living on a fixed income. They struggle to afford their medications and face difficulty navigating the healthcare system. Their asthma is poorly controlled, leading to frequent hospital visits. This negatively affects the Asthma Score.

* **Healthy Lifestyle Factors:** Diet, exercise, and smoking habits play a significant role in overall respiratory health. Kings Park boasts a strong community spirit, encouraging outdoor activities and social interaction. However, the availability of healthy food options, particularly in certain areas, and the prevalence of smoking within the community need careful consideration.

Envision a group of friends, meeting for a brisk walk along the trails of the Nissequogue River State Park. The fresh air and exercise benefit their lungs and overall well-being. This positive element boosts the Asthma Score. Contrast this with a scenario where a teenager, surrounded by peers who smoke, struggles to resist the pressure. This lowers the score.

**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Easier Together**

Kings Park isn't just a collection of houses; it's a community. And within that community, there's a growing movement to promote health and wellness.

* **The Role of the School System:** The Kings Park School District plays a vital role. School nurses are often the first line of defense, identifying and managing asthma cases among students. Educational programs about asthma triggers and management are crucial.

Imagine a school nurse, working with a child and their family to create an asthma action plan. This proactive approach improves the Asthma Score.

* **Community Centers and Parks:** The Kings Park Community Center and the extensive park system offer opportunities for exercise, recreation, and social interaction. These spaces provide a haven for physical activity, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.

Picture a community yoga class, held in the park, with participants breathing deeply and connecting with nature. This positive element boosts the Asthma Score.

* **Local Healthcare Providers:** Local physicians and specialists are essential in providing asthma care. Their expertise and commitment to the community are invaluable.

Consider a local pediatrician, working with families to educate them about asthma management and prevention. This directly impacts the Asthma Score.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Unseen Influences**

Beyond the tangible factors, the "vibe" of Kings Park plays a role. A strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other, can create a supportive environment that encourages healthy behaviors.

* **Social Cohesion:** Strong social connections can reduce stress and improve mental health, indirectly benefiting respiratory health.
* **Community Events:** Festivals, farmers' markets, and other community gatherings foster social interaction and promote healthy lifestyles.
* **Advocacy and Awareness:** A community that actively advocates for environmental protection and raises awareness about asthma is more likely to see improvements in respiratory health.

**Outdoor Recreation: A Breath of Fresh Air, Literally**

The Nissequogue River State Park is a crown jewel of Kings Park. Its trails, open spaces, and waterfront access provide unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation.

* **Hiking and Biking:** These activities promote cardiovascular health and improve lung function.
* **Water Activities:** Kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports provide a low-impact way to exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
* **Community Gardens:** These spaces provide access to fresh, healthy food and offer opportunities for social interaction.

**The Asthma Score: A Dynamic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for Kings Park is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment, constantly evolving based on the interplay of various factors.

* **Areas for Improvement:** Addressing air quality concerns, improving housing conditions, ensuring access to healthcare, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices are crucial.
* **Opportunities for Growth:** Leveraging the town's strong community spirit, expanding wellness programs, and maximizing the use of the Nissequogue River State Park can lead to significant improvements.
* **Community Collaboration:** Success hinges on collaboration between residents, healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government.

**Conclusion: Breathing into the Future**

Kings Park has the potential to be a model community for respiratory health. By understanding the factors that influence asthma prevalence, addressing the challenges, and capitalizing on the opportunities, the town can create a healthier environment for all its residents.

The "Asthma Score" isn't just about numbers; it's about people. It's about the young child playing in the park, the elderly resident enjoying a quiet afternoon, and the family building a life together. It's about ensuring that everyone in Kings Park can breathe freely, deeply, and with the confidence of a healthy future. The journey towards improved respiratory health is ongoing, but with a dedicated community, a commitment to proactive measures, and a breath of fresh air, Kings Park can continue to thrive.