14739, Friendship, New York Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 14739, Friendship, New York is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.06 percent of the residents in 14739 has some form of health insurance. 59.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.65 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 14739 would have to travel an average of 11.21 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Jones Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 869 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 14739, Friendship, New York.

## The Breath of Friendship: Unpacking Asthma & Building a Healthier 14739

The air in Friendship, New York, a town nestled in the rolling hills of Allegany County, holds a certain crispness. You can practically taste the promise of the seasons shifting, from the vibrant hues of autumn foliage to the clean, snow-dusted mornings of winter. But for some residents, that air isn't just a breath of fresh promise; it's a potential trigger, a source of anxiety, a daily battle fought against the invisible enemy of asthma.

This isn't to say Friendship is uniquely plagued. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, affects millions across the United States. But understanding the specific nuances of community health within the 14739 ZIP code – the demographics, the environment, the resources available – is crucial to building a healthier, more resilient community where everyone can breathe easy.

**The Lay of the Land: A Snapshot of 14739**

Friendship is a close-knit community. Think of it as a tapestry woven with threads of rural charm, a touch of historical significance (the town was founded in 1815!), and the resilient spirit of its residents. The population, hovering around 1,500, is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of residents identifying as belonging to other racial groups. Median household income is below the national average, reflecting the economic realities of rural living. This economic factor often intersects with health outcomes; access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing can be significantly impacted by financial constraints.

The landscape itself plays a role. The surrounding hills, while beautiful, can trap pollutants and allergens, particularly during certain times of the year. Homes, many of which predate modern building standards, may have issues with mold, dust mites, and other indoor air quality concerns that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

**The Asthma Score: A Deeper Dive**

While there isn’t a single, official "Asthma Score" for a ZIP code, we can paint a picture by considering the factors that contribute to asthma prevalence and severity. This includes:

* **Demographics:** The age distribution of the population matters. Children and the elderly are often more vulnerable to asthma triggers. The percentage of children in Friendship is significant, which means ensuring their well-being and access to preventative care is paramount.

* **Environmental Factors:** This is where the rubber meets the road. The quality of the air inside and outside homes is critical. The presence of allergens (pollen, mold, dust mites), irritants (smoke, strong cleaning products), and pollutants (vehicle exhaust, wood-burning stoves) can all trigger asthma attacks.

* **Socioeconomic Factors:** As mentioned earlier, income level impacts access to healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing. Food insecurity, stress, and limited access to transportation can all indirectly contribute to asthma management challenges.

* **Healthcare Access:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists (like pulmonologists), and asthma educators is crucial. Proximity to hospitals and urgent care facilities is also a factor.

* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking, both active and passive, is a major asthma trigger. The prevalence of physical activity and a healthy diet also play a role in overall respiratory health.

**Breathing Easy: Building a Healthier Future in Friendship**

So, what can be done to improve the “Asthma Score” in 14739? It's a multifaceted approach that requires collaboration between residents, healthcare providers, local organizations, and the town government.

**Vignette 1: The School Playground**

Imagine a crisp autumn afternoon. The Friendship Central School playground is buzzing with activity. Children, bundled in jackets, are laughing and running, their breath visible in the cool air. But for some, the simple act of playing can be a challenge. A child, let's call her Lily, starts to cough, her face flushing. Her friend, knowing the drill, runs to get her inhaler from her backpack.

This scene highlights the importance of school-based asthma management programs. Schools can implement asthma action plans, train staff to recognize and respond to asthma symptoms, and ensure that children have access to their medications. Furthermore, the school can play a role in educating students and their families about asthma triggers and management strategies.

**Vignette 2: The Farmer's Market**

The Friendship Farmer's Market, a vibrant hub of community life, offers a different kind of breath of fresh air. Local farmers display their colorful produce, from plump tomatoes to crisp apples. This is more than just a place to buy groceries; it's an opportunity to access fresh, healthy food, a crucial element in managing asthma.

The market can also be a venue for health education. Imagine a booth set up by the local health department, offering information about asthma triggers, healthy eating habits, and local wellness programs. This could include cooking demonstrations featuring asthma-friendly recipes and tips on how to identify and avoid common allergens.

**Vignette 3: The Community Center**

The Friendship Community Center serves as a vital resource for the town. It hosts various programs, from senior activities to youth sports. It could also be a hub for asthma education and support.

The center could host asthma support groups, led by trained professionals, where residents can share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand the challenges of living with asthma. They could also host workshops on topics like indoor air quality, allergen control, and asthma-friendly cleaning practices.

**Vignette 4: The Doctor's Office**

Dr. Miller, a family physician in Friendship, is a key player in the community's health. She sees many patients with asthma. She understands the importance of individualized care, taking the time to understand each patient's triggers and lifestyle.

Dr. Miller collaborates with local pharmacies to ensure patients have access to their medications and provides education on proper inhaler technique and asthma action plans. She also advocates for her patients, connecting them with resources like the local health department and community support groups.

**The Power of Place: Healthy Lifestyle in Friendship**

Friendship's charm lies in its ability to foster a sense of community. This sense of belonging is a powerful tool in promoting healthy lifestyles.

* **Outdoor Recreation:** The surrounding hills and forests offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and biking to fishing and hunting. These activities can be beneficial for respiratory health, but it's crucial to be mindful of environmental triggers like pollen and air quality.
* **Neighborhood Vibe:** The close-knit nature of Friendship fosters a sense of social support. Neighbors look out for each other, offering assistance and encouragement. This social support can be invaluable for individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma.
* **Local Wellness Programs:** The town can support and promote local wellness programs, such as yoga classes, walking groups, and healthy cooking classes. These programs can help residents adopt healthy habits and manage their asthma symptoms.

**A Call to Action: Building a Healthier 14739**

Improving the "Asthma Score" in Friendship is an ongoing process. It requires a commitment from everyone:

* **Residents:** Educate yourselves about asthma triggers and management strategies. Advocate for your own health and the health of your community.
* **Healthcare Providers:** Continue to provide high-quality care and education to asthma patients. Collaborate with community organizations to expand access to resources.
* **Local Organizations:** Partner with healthcare providers and the town government to implement asthma education programs and support groups.
* **Town Government:** Invest in infrastructure that promotes healthy living, such as parks and walking trails. Support initiatives that improve air quality and access to healthcare.

Friendship, with its inherent strengths of community and resilience, is well-positioned to become a model for rural community health. By understanding the specific challenges of asthma within the 14739 ZIP code and working together, the residents of Friendship can create a healthier environment where everyone can breathe easy, and the crisp air of the Allegany hills can be enjoyed by all. The breath of Friendship, after all, should be a source of vitality, not a trigger for distress.