Health Scores Near 12980, Saint Regis Falls, New York
You may also like
The People Score for the Asthma Score in 12980, Saint Regis Falls, New York is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 90.71 percent of the residents in 12980 has some form of health insurance. 42.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.50 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 12980 would have to travel an average of 19.14 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Alice Hyde Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,845 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 12980, Saint Regis Falls, New York.
Health Scores in 12980, Saint Regis Falls, New York
| Asthma Score | 10 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 45 |
| Provider Score | 27 |
| Hospital Score | 30 |
| Travel Score | 17 |
| 12980 | Saint Regis Falls | New York | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employer Insurance | 51.47 | 51.47 | 55.61 |
| Direct Purchase Insurance | 18.67 | 18.67 | 13.15 |
| Medicare | 28.15 | 28.15 | 17.48 |
| Medicaid | 20.85 | 20.85 | 25.93 |
| TRICARE | 0.76 | 0.76 | 0.88 |
| VA | 49.57 | 49.57 | 51.90 |
Percent Insured in 12980, Saint Regis Falls, New York
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
| 12980 | Saint Regis Falls | New York | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 97.53 |
| Adults (19-64 years) | 85.82 | 85.82 | 92.43 |
| Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.14 |
## The Breath of the North: Unpacking the Asthma Score in Saint Regis Falls (12980)
The wind whips off the St. Regis River, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a familiar perfume in Saint Regis Falls, New York (ZIP Code 12980). Here, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, life unfolds at a pace dictated by the seasons, by the rhythm of the woods, and, for some, by the subtle, yet persistent, whisper of asthma. Understanding the community health landscape in this corner of Franklin County, particularly the factors influencing asthma prevalence and management, requires more than just numbers. It demands a deep dive into the heart of the community, a recognition of its unique character, and an honest assessment of its strengths and vulnerabilities.
**The Foundation: A Snapshot of 12980**
Before we delve into the specifics of asthma, let's sketch the backdrop. Saint Regis Falls is a small, tight-knit community, a place where everyone knows everyone, or at least knows *of* them. The population hovers around 1,200, a mosaic of families who've put down roots generations ago, and newcomers drawn by the promise of a simpler life, closer to nature. The median age skews older than the national average, reflecting a trend of young people seeking opportunities elsewhere, leaving behind a community striving to maintain its vitality.
The economic landscape is modest. The town’s history is interwoven with the lumber industry, and while that era has faded, remnants of its legacy remain in the architecture and the enduring connection to the surrounding forests. The primary employers are the local school district, small businesses, and the healthcare sector, with a significant portion of the workforce commuting to larger towns for employment.
The housing stock is varied, from historic homes with sprawling porches to more modern, single-family dwellings. Finding an affordable place to live is generally achievable, though the availability of rentals can be limited. The cost of living is relatively low compared to urban centers, but the challenges of rural living – distance to specialized healthcare, limited access to certain amenities – must be factored in.
**The Asthma Score: A Community's Respiratory Reality**
While a precise "Asthma Score" is a complex metric, encompassing factors like prevalence rates, hospitalizations, medication adherence, and environmental triggers, we can paint a picture of the asthma landscape in Saint Regis Falls by examining the key influences.
**Demographics and Vulnerabilities:**
The demographics of 12980 play a significant role. Asthma disproportionately affects children and the elderly, both populations that are present in Saint Regis Falls. The aging population may experience a higher burden of chronic conditions, including asthma, and may face challenges accessing specialized care or managing their medications. Children, particularly those from low-income families, may be more vulnerable to environmental triggers like mold, dust mites, and secondhand smoke.
**Places to Live and Environmental Considerations:**
The quality of housing is a critical factor. Older homes, common in Saint Regis Falls, may harbor mold and allergens. Proper ventilation and regular maintenance are crucial, yet may be a challenge for some residents due to financial constraints or lack of awareness. The proximity to the forest, while offering undeniable beauty and recreational opportunities, also brings its own set of challenges. Pollen from trees and other plants can be a significant trigger for asthma sufferers during certain seasons.
Consider the house on the edge of town, nestled beneath a canopy of maples. The air smells fresh, but inside, the dampness lingers, a subtle but persistent threat. The old furnace, a relic from a bygone era, struggles to keep the house warm, and the resulting drafts and uneven temperatures contribute to the potential for respiratory issues. The family, struggling to make ends meet, might not have the resources to address the underlying issues, creating a cycle of vulnerability.
**The Neighborhood Vibe and Social Determinants:**
The "neighborhood vibe" in Saint Regis Falls is one of resilience and neighborly support. However, social determinants of health – factors like income, education, access to healthcare, and social support – significantly impact asthma management. Limited access to transportation can make it difficult to attend doctor's appointments or pick up prescriptions. Food insecurity, a challenge in many rural communities, can compromise overall health and weaken the immune system, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.
Imagine the single mother working two jobs, struggling to make ends meet. Her child’s asthma flares up, and she has to take time off work to care for them, further straining her finances. The local school nurse is a lifeline, but the child needs specialized care that requires a drive to a larger town, a logistical hurdle that can feel insurmountable.
**Outdoor Recreation and the Breath of the Wild:**
The Adirondacks beckon, offering a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. Hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are integral parts of life in Saint Regis Falls. However, these activities can also present challenges for asthma sufferers. Cold air, pollen, and physical exertion can trigger asthma symptoms.
Picture the young boy, eager to join his friends on a snowshoeing adventure. He loves the crisp air, the crunch of snow underfoot, but the cold air tightens his chest, and he has to stop, relying on his inhaler to catch his breath. The experience is a reminder of the delicate balance between enjoying the outdoors and managing his condition.
**Local Wellness Programs and Community Support:**
Saint Regis Falls, despite its size, boasts a network of community resources. The local school district plays a vital role in providing health education and support to students with asthma. The town’s community center often hosts events and programs focused on health and wellness. The local healthcare providers are dedicated to providing accessible and personalized care.
The local pharmacy, a hub of community life, is more than just a place to pick up prescriptions. The pharmacist knows the residents by name, offers advice, and provides a vital link to information about asthma management. The school nurse, a trusted figure, works tirelessly to educate students and their families about asthma triggers and treatment plans.
**The Path Forward: Strengthening the Breath of the Community**
Improving the "Asthma Score" in Saint Regis Falls requires a multi-pronged approach, focusing on prevention, education, and access to care.
**Enhancing Environmental Awareness:**
* **Home inspections and remediation programs:** Partnering with local organizations to offer home inspections and financial assistance for addressing environmental triggers like mold and allergens.
* **Air quality monitoring:** Implementing a local air quality monitoring system to track pollen levels and other pollutants, providing real-time information to residents.
**Promoting Education and Awareness:**
* **Asthma education programs:** Expanding asthma education programs in schools and community centers, focusing on trigger identification, medication management, and emergency preparedness.
* **Support groups:** Creating support groups for asthma sufferers and their families, providing a safe space to share experiences and learn from each other.
**Strengthening Access to Care:**
* **Telehealth services:** Expanding access to telehealth services, allowing residents to connect with specialists and receive remote consultations.
* **Transportation assistance:** Providing transportation assistance to doctor's appointments and pharmacies.
* **Financial assistance programs:** Connecting residents with financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of medications and medical care.
**Fostering a Healthy Lifestyle:**
* **Promoting physical activity:** Encouraging participation in outdoor recreational activities, while providing education on how to manage asthma symptoms during exercise.
* **Healthy eating initiatives:** Supporting healthy eating initiatives, such as community gardens and farmers' markets, to improve overall health and reduce the risk of asthma triggers.
**The Ripple Effect:**
Addressing the challenges of asthma in Saint Regis Falls is not just about improving respiratory health; it's about strengthening the fabric of the community. It's about empowering individuals to take control of their health, fostering a culture of support and understanding, and ensuring that everyone can breathe freely and fully.
Imagine the future: the young boy, armed with knowledge and support, confidently participates in outdoor activities, his asthma well-managed. The single mother finds the resources she needs to care for her child and maintain her own well-being. The community rallies together, creating a healthier and more vibrant place to live, where the breath of the north is a source of strength, not a cause for concern. The "Asthma Score" improves, not just as a statistic, but as a reflection of a community that cares, a community that breathes together, and a community that thrives.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like
