The People Score for the Asthma Score in 12943, Keene Valley, New York is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 12943 has some form of health insurance. 47.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.72 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 12943 would have to travel an average of 9.78 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Elizabethtown Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 385 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 12943, Keene Valley, New York.
Health Scores in 12943, Keene Valley, New York
Asthma Score | 79 |
---|---|
People Score | 90 |
Provider Score | 38 |
Hospital Score | 71 |
Travel Score | 38 |
12943 | Keene Valley | New York | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 60.47 | 60.47 | 55.61 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 11.80 | 11.80 | 13.15 |
Medicare | 27.73 | 27.73 | 17.48 |
Medicaid | 28.02 | 28.02 | 25.93 |
TRICARE | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.88 |
VA | 58.11 | 58.11 | 51.90 |
Percent Insured in 12943, Keene Valley, New York
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
12943 | Keene Valley | New York | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 97.53 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 92.43 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.14 |
## The Keene Valley Breath: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 12943
The crisp air of Keene Valley, New York, a place where the Adirondack Mountains claw at the sky, often feels like a promise. A promise of purity, of vitality, of lungs that can fill to bursting with the scent of pine and damp earth. But for some residents of ZIP code 12943, that promise is often tempered by the reality of asthma. This isn't just a medical condition; it's a lens through which we can examine the very fabric of community health, the interwoven threads of lifestyle, environment, and access that define life in this stunning, yet sometimes challenging, corner of the world.
This isn't a sterile report, a recitation of statistics. This is a deep breath, a journey into the heart of Keene Valley, exploring how the community breathes, how it lives, and what it's doing to ensure that everyone can inhale the mountain air with ease. We'll be looking at the "Asthma Score" – not a formal metric, but a way of understanding the factors that contribute to respiratory health, and how they play out in the lives of the people who call 12943 home.
**The Demographics: A Tapestry Woven with Resilience**
Keene Valley, nestled within the larger town of Keene, is a small community. The population, hovering around a few hundred permanent residents, swells with seasonal visitors drawn to the hiking, climbing, and the sheer grandeur of the Adirondacks. This demographic mix is a crucial piece of the puzzle.
Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a lifelong resident, her weathered face etched with the stories of generations. She knows the trails like the back of her hand, the whispers of the wind through the pines, the subtle shifts in weather that signal a change. She's seen the valley transform, from a logging town to a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Her life, and the lives of many long-term residents, is inextricably linked to the land. They are the bedrock of the community, their knowledge a treasure trove of local wisdom.
Then there’s the influx of seasonal residents and visitors. The families escaping city life, the adventurers seeking adrenaline, the retirees looking for a peaceful retreat. They bring with them a different perspective, a different set of needs, and often, a different level of awareness regarding the unique challenges of mountain living. This influx can impact the community's resources, from healthcare access to housing availability, factors that can indirectly influence respiratory health.
The age distribution is also significant. A larger proportion of older residents, coupled with the presence of young families, creates a diverse range of needs. Children, with their developing lungs, are particularly vulnerable to environmental triggers. The elderly, often with pre-existing conditions, may find the mountain air, while beautiful, challenging to navigate.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Blend of Tranquility and Activity**
The "neighborhood vibe" in Keene Valley is a complex blend of tranquility and activity. The pace of life is slower, dictated by the rhythms of nature. The sound of rushing water, the rustle of leaves, the distant call of a hawk – these are the everyday symphonies.
Picture a crisp autumn morning. The sun paints the mountains in hues of gold and crimson. Families gather at the Keene Valley Central School, the heart of the community, for a weekend farmers' market. Local farmers, their faces tanned by the sun, offer fresh produce, honey, and homemade goods. The air is filled with the aroma of apple cider and the chatter of neighbors catching up. This is the essence of the community – a shared appreciation for the simple things, a connection to the land, and a sense of belonging.
But the tranquility is punctuated by bursts of activity. The climbing community, a vibrant and passionate group, attracts adventurers from around the world. They converge on the iconic cliffs of the Adirondacks, their energy palpable. The trails are alive with hikers, their boots crunching on the gravel, their breath catching in the thin air. This outdoor lifestyle is a double-edged sword. While it promotes physical activity and a connection to nature, it also exposes residents to potential triggers like pollen, mold, and air pollutants.
**Places to Live: Homes and Habitats in the Shadow of Giants**
The types of housing in 12943 are as diverse as the landscape itself. From historic homes with character to modern, energy-efficient residences, the options reflect the varied needs and preferences of the residents.
Consider the old farmhouse nestled at the foot of Giant Mountain. Its weathered siding and creaking floors speak of generations past. It might be a haven for a family seeking a connection to the land, but it could also harbor hidden challenges. Older homes are more susceptible to mold and dust mites, common asthma triggers.
Then there are the newer, more modern homes, often built with energy efficiency in mind. These may be better insulated, with improved air filtration systems. But even these dwellings are not immune to the challenges of the mountain environment. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can seep into homes, posing a significant health risk.
The proximity to the mountains is a constant presence. The air quality, while generally good, can be impacted by seasonal changes. Pollen counts can soar during the spring and summer months, triggering asthma symptoms. During the winter, wood-burning stoves, a common source of heat, can release particulate matter into the air, exacerbating respiratory issues.
**Healthy Lifestyle in Keene Valley: The Breath of Life**
A healthy lifestyle is paramount in mitigating asthma triggers and promoting overall well-being. Keene Valley offers a wealth of opportunities for residents to embrace a healthy lifestyle, but access and awareness are key.
Outdoor recreation is the lifeblood of the community. Hiking, climbing, skiing, snowshoeing – the options are endless. These activities promote physical fitness, reduce stress, and provide a profound connection to nature. But for individuals with asthma, careful planning is essential. Monitoring pollen counts, avoiding strenuous activity during peak pollution times, and carrying rescue inhalers are crucial precautions.
The availability of fresh, local produce is another advantage. The farmers' market, community gardens, and local farms provide access to healthy, nutritious food, supporting a strong immune system. However, access to healthy food can be a challenge for some residents, particularly those with limited income or transportation.
**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Easy Together**
The community is not passive. It actively seeks to promote the well-being of its residents, including those with asthma. Local wellness programs play a vital role in providing support and education.
The Keene Valley Library, a hub of community activity, often hosts health workshops and educational sessions. These programs might cover asthma management techniques, the importance of indoor air quality, or the benefits of exercise.
The Keene Valley Central School is another key player. School nurses are often the first line of defense for children with asthma, providing education, monitoring symptoms, and coordinating care with parents and healthcare providers.
The local healthcare providers, including the Adirondack Medical Center in nearby Saranac Lake, offer essential medical services. Access to specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, is crucial for managing the condition effectively.
**The Asthma Score: A Community's Commitment**
The "Asthma Score" in 12943 isn't a number. It's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. It's a measure of the interplay between environment, lifestyle, access to care, and the shared responsibility of ensuring that everyone can breathe easy.
The challenges are real. The mountain environment presents unique triggers. Access to healthcare can be a hurdle. Economic disparities can create barriers to healthy living.
But the strengths are equally significant. The strong sense of community, the dedication to outdoor recreation, the availability of local resources, and the growing awareness of asthma management – these are the building blocks of a healthier future.
Imagine a future where:
* Every home is equipped with air quality monitors, alerting residents to potential triggers.
* The school system offers comprehensive asthma education programs for students and staff.
* The community collaborates to develop and implement accessible wellness programs, tailored to the specific needs of the residents.
* The trails are accessible to all, with designated routes for those with respiratory challenges.
* The community rallies to support those with asthma, ensuring that everyone can experience the full beauty and vitality of Keene Valley.
The journey towards this future is ongoing. It requires collaboration, education, and a shared commitment to creating a community where everyone can take a deep, refreshing breath and truly thrive. The air in Keene Valley is a precious resource. Protecting it, and ensuring that everyone can breathe it freely, is a testament to the community's resilience, its spirit, and its enduring love for the mountains that surround them. The "Asthma Score" isn't just about lungs; it's about the heart of Keene Valley itself.
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