43019, Fredericktown, Ohio Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.86 percent of the residents in 43019 has some form of health insurance. 31.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.76 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 43019 would have to travel an average of 9.50 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Knox Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,260 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio.

## The Fredericktown Fight: Breathing Easy in 43019

The air hangs crisp and clean over Fredericktown, Ohio. Rolling hills, dotted with farms and the occasional stand of ancient oak, cradle the village. You can almost taste the promise of a good life, a slower pace, a place where community matters. But for some residents of 43019, that simple act of breathing – of taking in the air that defines this landscape – is a daily battle. This isn't just about individual struggles; it's a challenge to the very fabric of community health, a call to action for a healthier Fredericktown.

Let's be clear: we're not just talking about a cough or a wheeze. We're talking about asthma, a chronic respiratory disease that can steal the joy from a child's playground laughter, the ease from an adult's workday, the peace from a senior's quiet evening. And in 43019, understanding the nuances of asthma prevalence and its impact is crucial to building a truly healthy community.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Breath of Life**

Before we dive into the specifics, let's get a feel for the community. Fredericktown, nestled in Knox County, is a charming village with a population hovering around 2,500. The demographics are predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic population, reflecting a shift in the area's agricultural workforce. Median household income sits below the national average, a factor that can significantly impact access to healthcare and healthy living options.

This is where the rubber meets the road when it comes to asthma. Socioeconomic factors are often intertwined with asthma prevalence. Limited access to quality healthcare, inadequate housing conditions (mold, dust mites), and exposure to environmental triggers can all exacerbate the condition. For families struggling to make ends meet, preventative care and proactive management can become secondary to immediate needs.

Imagine a young mother, Maria, working two jobs to support her children. Her son, Mateo, suffers from asthma. The cost of medications, doctor's visits, and even specialized bedding to minimize allergens can be overwhelming. A simple cold can quickly escalate into a crisis, requiring a trip to the emergency room, lost wages, and added stress. Her story, though fictional, reflects the realities faced by many families in 43019.

**Where We Live: Housing, Environment, and the Invisible Threats**

The beauty of Fredericktown is undeniable. But even in this idyllic setting, potential asthma triggers lurk. Older homes, a significant portion of the housing stock, might harbor mold and mildew, invisible enemies that trigger respiratory distress. The presence of wood-burning stoves, while offering warmth and charm, can contribute to poor indoor air quality.

Consider the historic homes lining Main Street. Beautifully preserved, they often come with the challenges of aging infrastructure. A leaky roof, a damp basement – these seemingly minor issues can create the perfect breeding ground for allergens that trigger asthma attacks.

Then there's the surrounding environment. While the farms contribute to the rural charm, they can also introduce airborne allergens like pollen and agricultural chemicals. Dust from nearby construction projects or even the simple act of mowing the lawn can become a challenge for those with sensitive airways.

**The Vibe: Community Spirit and the Pursuit of Wellness**

Fredericktown has a strong sense of community. The annual Tomato Show, the local farmers market, and the Friday night football games at Fredericktown High School are all testaments to the village's close-knit nature. This community spirit is a vital asset in the fight against asthma.

Imagine the possibilities: a community garden where residents can grow their own healthy, allergen-free produce. A partnership between the local schools and healthcare providers to educate children and families about asthma management. A network of volunteers trained to provide support and resources to those struggling with the disease.

The neighborhood vibe is one of quiet resilience. People look out for each other, offering a helping hand when needed. This sense of connection is crucial for creating a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to take control of their health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep and Finding Freedom**

Despite the potential triggers, Fredericktown offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Kokosing Gap Trail, a scenic paved path, provides a safe and accessible space for walking, biking, and enjoying the fresh air. The nearby Mohican State Park offers hiking trails and opportunities for exploring nature.

However, for those with asthma, enjoying these outdoor activities requires careful planning. Understanding pollen counts, monitoring air quality, and having a rescue inhaler readily available are essential.

Picture a group of children, bundled up for a crisp autumn afternoon on the playground at the Fredericktown Elementary School. One child, struggling with a cough, sits on the sidelines, watching the others play. This is where education and awareness come into play. Teachers, coaches, and community members need to be equipped to recognize asthma symptoms and provide support.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

Fortunately, Fredericktown isn't standing still. Several local initiatives are already making a difference, and the potential for growth is immense.

* **The Knox County Health Department:** This vital resource provides a range of services, including asthma education, screenings, and referrals to specialists. Expanding the reach of these programs and ensuring they are accessible to all residents is paramount.
* **Local Physicians and Clinics:** The healthcare providers in 43019 play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing asthma. Strengthening partnerships between these providers and community organizations can ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care they need.
* **The Fredericktown Community Library:** The library can serve as a hub for health education, offering workshops on asthma management, healthy cooking, and stress reduction techniques.

**The Asthma Score: A Snapshot of Community Health**

So, how do we measure the health of our community in relation to asthma? We need to consider several factors:

* **Prevalence:** How many residents of 43019 are diagnosed with asthma? (This data is often tracked by the Knox County Health Department).
* **Hospitalization Rates:** How frequently are residents with asthma admitted to the hospital for asthma-related complications?
* **Access to Care:** Do residents have access to affordable healthcare, including specialists and medications?
* **Environmental Factors:** What are the levels of air pollution and allergen exposure in the community?
* **Community Awareness:** How well-informed are residents about asthma triggers, management strategies, and available resources?
* **School Policies:** Are schools equipped to handle asthma emergencies and provide a supportive environment for students with the condition?

By gathering and analyzing this data, we can create an "Asthma Score" for 43019. This score will serve as a benchmark, allowing us to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate successes.

**The Path Forward: A Call to Action**

Improving community health in 43019 requires a multi-faceted approach.

* **Increased Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers, management strategies, and available resources is essential.
* **Enhanced Access to Care:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable healthcare, including specialists and medications, is critical.
* **Environmental Improvements:** Addressing environmental factors that contribute to asthma, such as poor housing conditions and air pollution, is crucial.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and residents is key to creating a supportive environment.
* **Policy Advocacy:** Supporting policies that promote healthy living, such as smoke-free environments and access to healthy food, can make a significant difference.

Imagine a future where Mateo, Maria's son, can run and play freely, without the fear of an asthma attack. Imagine a community where everyone has the knowledge and resources to breathe easy. This is the vision for Fredericktown, a vision that can be realized through collaborative effort, unwavering commitment, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The fight against asthma in 43019 is a fight for the health and well-being of the entire community. It's a fight worth winning.