13740, Bovina Center, New York Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 13740, Bovina Center, New York is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.99 percent of the residents in 13740 has some form of health insurance. 46.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.54 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 13740 would have to travel an average of 7.99 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, O'Connor Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 253 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 13740, Bovina Center, New York.

## Breathing Easy in Bovina Center: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 13740

The crisp mountain air, the rolling green hills, the quiet hum of a life lived close to nature – Bovina Center, New York, ZIP code 13740, conjures images of idyllic rural living. But beneath the surface of this Delaware County haven lies a complex tapestry of community health, one that, like a deep breath, needs to be fully examined to understand its true vitality. This isn't just about fresh air; it's about the factors that impact respiratory health, particularly asthma, within this unique pocket of the Catskills. We're not just looking at a score; we're looking at the breath of Bovina Center itself.

Let's imagine a late summer afternoon. The sun, a warm hand on the land, casts long shadows across the fields. A young boy, maybe eight years old, bursts from the weathered clapboard house he shares with his grandparents, a flurry of energy. He's got a red kite clutched in his hand, eager to send it soaring above the patchwork quilt of farms. But before he can even take a full stride, a familiar tightness grips his chest. He stops, hand instinctively reaching for his inhaler, a small, silver lifeline. This is a reality for some children, and adults, in Bovina Center. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, can be a significant factor in the quality of life, and understanding its prevalence and contributing factors is crucial to fostering a truly healthy community.

**Demographics: The Breath of the Community**

To understand the potential for asthma in 13740, we need to first understand the people who call it home. Bovina Center is a small, close-knit community. The population, hovering around a few hundred residents, is predominantly white, with a significant portion of the population being over 65. This aging demographic presents unique challenges. Older adults are often more susceptible to respiratory illnesses, and the presence of chronic conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

The economic landscape is another critical piece of the puzzle. Bovina Center is largely rural, with a reliance on agriculture and related industries. While the cost of living is generally lower than in more urban areas, access to healthcare, including specialized respiratory care, can be a challenge. The nearest hospitals and specialists are located in Delhi or Oneonta, requiring travel that can be difficult for those with limited mobility or transportation options. This potential for limited access to care is a significant factor in the overall asthma score.

The housing stock in Bovina Center is another consideration. Many homes are older, and while charming, they may harbor allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander. These indoor environmental factors can trigger asthma attacks, especially in individuals with sensitivities. The presence of wood-burning stoves, common in rural areas, can also contribute to poor air quality, particularly during the colder months.

**Places to Live: Where the Air We Breathe Resides**

The physical environment of Bovina Center is a double-edged sword when it comes to respiratory health. The clean air, the vast open spaces, and the absence of heavy industry are all positive factors. The air quality is generally good, a stark contrast to more polluted urban environments. However, the very things that make Bovina Center appealing can also present challenges.

Consider the farms. While the picturesque landscape is a source of pride, the agricultural practices can impact air quality. Dust from tilling fields, the use of pesticides and herbicides, and the presence of livestock can all contribute to airborne irritants. Farmers and farmworkers, in particular, may be exposed to these triggers on a regular basis.

Then there's the proximity to nature. While the forests and fields offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, they also harbor allergens like pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. These allergens can be significant triggers for asthma sufferers, particularly during the spring and summer months.

Let's picture a family enjoying a picnic at the Bovina Center Town Hall Park. The children are running and playing, the parents are relaxing, enjoying the fresh air. But for a child with asthma, the joy of the moment can be overshadowed by the potential for a reaction. The pollen count, the presence of mold spores in the damp grass, the potential for exposure to insect stings – all these factors can contribute to a flare-up.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of the Community**

The intangible elements of community life also play a crucial role in the asthma score. Bovina Center has a strong sense of community, a tight-knit network of neighbors who look out for each other. This social cohesion can be a powerful buffer against the stresses that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Imagine a community potluck at the Bovina Center Fire Department. Neighbors gather, sharing food, stories, and laughter. This sense of belonging, this feeling of being supported, can contribute to a sense of well-being that helps to mitigate the impact of chronic illness.

However, the rural nature of Bovina Center can also present challenges. The lack of public transportation, the limited access to social services, and the potential for social isolation can all negatively impact mental and emotional health, which in turn can affect physical health, including asthma management.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Good and the Bad**

Bovina Center offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Hiking trails wind through the forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Fishing streams beckon anglers. The open fields are perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.

But for individuals with asthma, outdoor recreation requires careful planning. The pollen count, the weather conditions, and the presence of potential allergens must all be considered. Access to emergency care is also a factor. While the Bovina Center Fire Department provides emergency medical services, the response time can be longer in a rural setting.

Let's imagine a hiker venturing out on the Palmer Hill Trail. The air is crisp, the scenery breathtaking. But the hiker, who has asthma, must be prepared. They need to carry their inhaler, be aware of the weather forecast, and know the signs of an asthma attack. This highlights the importance of education and preparedness in managing asthma in a rural setting.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Stronger Breath**

The presence of local wellness programs can significantly impact the asthma score. While Bovina Center may not have the resources of a larger city, there are opportunities to promote community health.

The Delaware County Public Health Department plays a vital role in providing health services and resources to the community. They offer educational programs on asthma management, including information on triggers, medications, and emergency care. They also provide resources for individuals with asthma, such as information on financial assistance and support groups.

The local school, the Bovina Center Central School, can also play a role in promoting asthma awareness. School nurses can provide education to students and staff, and the school can implement policies to protect students with asthma, such as allowing students to carry their inhalers and providing access to emergency care.

Imagine a community health fair at the Bovina Center Town Hall. Representatives from the Delaware County Public Health Department are on hand, providing information on asthma management and other health topics. Local healthcare providers are offering free screenings and consultations. This type of community outreach is essential to improving the asthma score.

**The Score: A Living, Breathing Assessment**

So, what's the asthma score for Bovina Center, 13740? It's not a simple number. It's a complex assessment, a living, breathing reflection of the community's strengths and weaknesses.

The good news is that the clean air and the strong sense of community provide a solid foundation for respiratory health. The presence of local wellness programs and the commitment of the Delaware County Public Health Department are also positive factors.

However, the aging population, the potential for limited access to healthcare, the older housing stock, and the challenges of rural living all present significant challenges. The prevalence of allergens in the environment and the need for careful planning for outdoor recreation are also important considerations.

The asthma score in Bovina Center is likely moderate, with the potential for improvement. It requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on:

* **Education and Awareness:** Raising awareness about asthma triggers, management strategies, and emergency care.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Ensuring that residents have access to affordable, quality healthcare, including specialized respiratory care.
* **Environmental Improvements:** Addressing indoor air quality issues, such as mold and dust mites, and promoting healthy home environments.
* **Community Support:** Fostering a strong sense of community and providing support for individuals with asthma and their families.
* **Outdoor Recreation Safety:** Educating residents about the potential triggers of asthma attacks during outdoor activities and promoting safe practices.

The journey to improve the asthma score in Bovina Center is an ongoing process. It requires the collaboration of residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. It's about breathing easy, about ensuring that everyone in Bovina Center has the opportunity to live a healthy, fulfilling life, free from the burden of asthma. It's about nurturing the very breath of the community itself.