12924, Keeseville, New York Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 12924, Keeseville, New York is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.97 percent of the residents in 12924 has some form of health insurance. 31.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.85 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 12924 would have to travel an average of 16.99 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Elizabethtown Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,404 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 12924, Keeseville, New York.

## Keeseville's Breath of Fresh Air: An Asthma Score Assessment of Community Health in ZIP Code 12924

The Ausable River carves its way through the heart of Keeseville, New York, a town cradled by the Adirondack Mountains. The air here, crisp and clean, often whispers of the wilderness that surrounds it. But beneath the postcard-perfect surface, a vital question lingers: how healthy is Keeseville, particularly for those battling asthma? This article, an "Asthma Score" assessment, dives into the community health landscape of ZIP code 12924, aiming to understand the factors that contribute to, and potentially mitigate, the challenges faced by residents with respiratory sensitivities.

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

Keeseville, with its population hovering around 2,000, boasts a tight-knit community feel. Main Street, a vibrant artery, is lined with locally-owned businesses – a bustling hardware store, a cozy bookstore, and the aroma of freshly baked goods spilling from the bakery. The demographics paint a picture of a predominantly white population, with a growing presence of families and retirees. The median age leans towards the older side, reflecting a trend seen in many rural communities.

The town's location is a double-edged sword. The stunning natural beauty, the lure of outdoor recreation, is undeniably a draw. Yet, the remoteness can also present challenges. Access to specialized medical care, including pulmonologists and allergy specialists, might require a drive to Plattsburgh or even further afield. This geographical reality impacts the ease with which residents can manage chronic conditions like asthma.

**Vignette 1: The Baker's Daughter**

Imagine Sarah, a young girl with a playful spirit and a persistent cough. Her father, the baker, wakes before dawn, the scent of yeast and sugar filling their home above the bakery. Sarah, sensitive to flour dust and fluctuating temperatures, struggles with her asthma, especially during the colder months. The family's apartment, while charming, is in an older building, and the air quality can be compromised. The local doctor, a kind and familiar face, prescribes medication and offers guidance, but the family yearns for a holistic approach, a community that actively supports Sarah's well-being.

**Housing: A Cornerstone of Health**

The quality of housing plays a crucial role in asthma management. Keeseville offers a mix of housing options, from historic homes to more modern developments. Older homes, while charming, can harbor triggers like mold, dust mites, and allergens. The presence of lead paint, a legacy of the past, can also exacerbate respiratory issues.

The availability of affordable, well-maintained housing is a key factor in community health. The town's housing market, influenced by its rural setting and proximity to recreational areas, can be competitive. This can lead to overcrowding or residents settling for less-than-ideal living conditions, potentially impacting their health.

**Vignette 2: The Retired Teacher's Garden**

Across town, in a meticulously kept bungalow, lives Mrs. Eleanor, a retired teacher with a love for gardening. Her yard is a riot of color, a testament to her green thumb. But Mrs. Eleanor also battles asthma, triggered by pollen and certain plants. She carefully monitors weather patterns, plans her gardening activities, and uses her inhaler judiciously. She's a firm believer in the power of fresh air and exercise, regularly walking the trails that wind along the Ausable. Her story highlights the importance of individual awareness and proactive management of asthma triggers.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

While Keeseville may not boast a sprawling medical center, it's not lacking in community spirit. Local initiatives, though perhaps modest in scale, are vital in promoting health and well-being. The town's library, a hub of activity, often hosts health-related workshops and educational programs. The local school actively promotes healthy eating and physical activity among its students.

The presence of a strong primary care physician and access to urgent care facilities in nearby towns are crucial lifelines. The effectiveness of these services, coupled with the availability of pharmacies and over-the-counter medications, directly impacts the ability of residents to manage their asthma effectively.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Support**

The "vibe" of a community is intangible, yet profoundly impactful. Keeseville exudes a sense of neighborliness, where people know each other, offer a helping hand, and look out for one another. This social cohesion is a powerful buffer against stress, a known trigger for asthma exacerbations.

The presence of community organizations, such as the local volunteer fire department and various social clubs, fosters a sense of belonging and provides opportunities for social interaction. These networks can also be instrumental in disseminating health information and connecting individuals with resources.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Adirondack Spirit**

The Adirondack Mountains are Keeseville's backyard, offering unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking trails, fishing spots, and the Ausable River itself beckon residents to embrace nature. However, for individuals with asthma, outdoor activities require careful planning and awareness.

Pollen counts, air quality, and weather conditions must be monitored. The benefits of exercise, however, are undeniable. Regular physical activity can improve lung function and overall health, ultimately contributing to better asthma management.

**Vignette 3: The River Runner**

Meet David, a young man who works at the local outfitter. He loves the river, the thrill of kayaking, and the serenity of the woods. He’s also an asthmatic. He carefully plans his outdoor adventures, checking the air quality index, carrying his inhaler, and being mindful of his body's signals. He's found that the fresh air and the physical exertion, when managed responsibly, actually improve his lung capacity and overall well-being. He embodies the spirit of Keeseville – embracing the outdoors while being mindful of his health.

**The Asthma Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, we can begin to formulate a preliminary "Asthma Score" for ZIP code 12924. This score is not a definitive scientific measurement, but rather a snapshot of the community's strengths and weaknesses in relation to asthma management.

**Positive Factors:**

* **Clean Air:** The natural environment, with its fresh air and low levels of pollution, is a significant advantage.
* **Community Spirit:** The strong sense of community and neighborliness fosters a supportive environment.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Access to outdoor activities, while requiring careful management, offers significant health benefits.
* **Local Healthcare:** Availability of primary care and access to pharmacies are essential.

**Negative Factors:**

* **Housing Quality:** Older housing stock may harbor asthma triggers.
* **Remoteness:** Limited access to specialized medical care can be a challenge.
* **Seasonal Allergens:** Pollen and other allergens can trigger asthma symptoms.
* **Economic Factors:** Affordability of housing and access to resources can be a concern.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Promote Asthma Education:** Increase awareness of asthma triggers and management strategies through workshops, community events, and partnerships with local healthcare providers.
* **Improve Housing Quality:** Advocate for programs that help residents improve the air quality in their homes, such as mold remediation and lead paint abatement.
* **Enhance Access to Care:** Explore options for telehealth services and mobile clinics to improve access to specialized medical care.
* **Support Local Wellness Programs:** Invest in and promote existing programs, such as those offered by the library and school, to encourage healthy lifestyles.
* **Monitor Air Quality:** Advocate for local air quality monitoring to provide residents with real-time information.
* **Foster Community Collaboration:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local businesses to create a comprehensive approach to asthma management.

**Conclusion: Breathing Easier in Keeseville**

Keeseville, with its stunning natural beauty and close-knit community, has the potential to be a haven for those with asthma. While challenges exist, the town's strengths – its clean air, its supportive community, and its commitment to well-being – provide a solid foundation for improvement. By addressing the identified weaknesses and implementing the recommendations, Keeseville can strive to create a healthier environment, where everyone can breathe easier and enjoy the beauty of the Adirondacks. The journey towards a healthier community is an ongoing one, and the residents of Keeseville, with their resilience and spirit, are well-equipped to take on the challenge. The future of Keeseville, and the health of its residents, depends on the collective effort to nurture a community where everyone can thrive, one breath at a time.