43716, Beallsville, Ohio Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 43716, Beallsville, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.01 percent of the residents in 43716 has some form of health insurance. 50.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.35 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 43716 would have to travel an average of 12.66 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 168 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43716, Beallsville, Ohio.

## The Breath of Beallsville: Unpacking the Asthma Score and the Community Health of 43716

The air hangs thick and sweet over Beallsville, Ohio. You can taste it, a blend of damp earth, blooming wildflowers, and the faint, metallic tang of the creek that snakes through the valley. This is a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons, where neighbors wave from their porches, and the only traffic jams involve a herd of deer crossing the road. But beneath the idyllic surface, a silent threat lingers: asthma.

This article delves into the community health of Beallsville, ZIP code 43716, specifically focusing on the factors that influence asthma prevalence and the broader picture of well-being within this close-knit Appalachian community. We'll explore the demographics, the neighborhood vibe, the places to live, and the opportunities for a healthy lifestyle in Beallsville, all while considering the challenges and triumphs of managing respiratory health in a rural setting.

**The Asthma Score: A Window into Community Health**

While a specific "Asthma Score" isn't a standardized metric, we can build a composite understanding by examining various indicators that contribute to asthma prevalence and severity. These include:

* **Environmental Factors:** Air quality, pollen counts, mold exposure, and access to clean water.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty levels, access to healthcare, health insurance coverage, and educational attainment.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking rates, physical activity levels, diet, and exposure to allergens.
* **Housing Conditions:** Presence of mold, pests, and poor ventilation.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and asthma education programs.

By analyzing these elements, we can paint a comprehensive picture of the community health landscape in Beallsville and identify areas for improvement.

**Demographics: The Faces of 43716**

Beallsville is a small town, a tight-knit community where everyone knows everyone. The population is primarily white, with a significant percentage of residents identifying as having Appalachian heritage. The median age skews older than the national average, reflecting a trend of younger people leaving the area for better job opportunities.

The economic landscape is largely agricultural, with a history of coal mining. The job market is limited, and poverty rates are higher than the national average. This economic reality impacts community health in several ways. Limited financial resources can restrict access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and adequate housing.

**Places to Live: Homes and Habitats**

The housing stock in Beallsville is diverse, ranging from historic farmhouses to modest single-family homes. Many residents live in older homes, which may present challenges related to asthma triggers. Older homes are more likely to have issues with mold, pests, and poor ventilation.

Consider the old Victorian on Main Street, its porch sagging slightly, its paint peeling in places. Inside, the air might be heavy with the scent of dampness, a potential breeding ground for mold spores. Or picture the cozy ranch nestled on a hillside, its windows overlooking a sprawling pasture. While the view is breathtaking, the proximity to fields and livestock could increase exposure to allergens.

The availability of affordable housing is a significant concern. Many residents struggle to afford the costs of home maintenance and improvements, which can exacerbate asthma triggers. Addressing these housing challenges is crucial for improving community health.

**Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Resilience**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Beallsville is one of resilience, neighborly support, and a deep connection to the land. Residents are fiercely independent and proud of their heritage. They are accustomed to helping each other out, whether it's lending a hand with chores, sharing a home-cooked meal, or simply offering a listening ear.

This strong sense of community is a valuable asset. It fosters social connections, reduces feelings of isolation, and can be a powerful force for positive change. However, the close-knit nature of the community can also present challenges. Information can spread quickly, both positive and negative, and misconceptions about asthma can persist.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Beallsville: Opportunities and Obstacles**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle in Beallsville requires a multifaceted approach. The community offers both opportunities and obstacles.

**Opportunities:**

* **Outdoor Recreation:** The surrounding hills and valleys provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. These activities can promote physical activity and reduce stress.
* **Local Food:** The area boasts a strong agricultural tradition. Farmers markets and local food initiatives can increase access to fresh, healthy produce.
* **Community Spirit:** The strong sense of community provides a foundation for health promotion initiatives. Neighbors can support each other in adopting healthy habits.

**Obstacles:**

* **Limited Access to Healthcare:** The rural location can make it challenging to access specialized medical care, including pulmonologists and allergists.
* **Food Deserts:** Limited access to grocery stores with fresh, healthy food options can make it difficult to maintain a balanced diet.
* **Economic Hardship:** Poverty can limit access to resources needed for a healthy lifestyle, such as healthy food, safe housing, and healthcare.
* **Social Determinants of Health:** The social determinants of health, such as education, income, and access to transportation, significantly impact health outcomes.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

While resources may be limited, the spirit of Beallsville shines through in the local wellness programs that are making a difference.

* **School-Based Initiatives:** Schools can play a vital role in educating children and families about asthma management and healthy lifestyles. Asthma education programs, school gardens, and physical education classes can empower children to take control of their health.
* **Community Health Clinics:** Local clinics and healthcare providers can offer asthma screening, education, and management services.
* **Support Groups:** Connecting individuals with asthma and their families can provide a sense of community and support.
* **Collaboration:** Partnerships between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government are essential for creating a comprehensive approach to asthma management.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easier in the Hills**

The rolling hills of Beallsville offer a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Imagine a family hiking the trails of the Wayne National Forest, the crisp air filling their lungs. Or picture a group of friends casting their lines in the creek, the gentle sound of the water washing away their worries.

However, outdoor recreation can also present challenges for individuals with asthma. Pollen counts can be high during certain seasons, and exposure to allergens can trigger asthma symptoms.

Promoting safe outdoor recreation requires:

* **Monitoring air quality:** Providing real-time air quality information can help individuals with asthma plan their outdoor activities.
* **Educating about triggers:** Educating residents about common asthma triggers, such as pollen, mold, and air pollution, can help them avoid exposure.
* **Providing access to resources:** Ensuring that individuals with asthma have access to medication, inhalers, and asthma action plans.

**The Path Forward: A Breath of Fresh Air**

Improving the community health of Beallsville, particularly in relation to asthma, requires a collaborative effort. Here are some key steps:

1. **Strengthening Healthcare Access:** Expanding access to primary care physicians, specialists, and asthma education programs is crucial. Telehealth services can help overcome geographic barriers.
2. **Addressing Housing Challenges:** Providing resources for home repairs, mold remediation, and improved ventilation can reduce exposure to asthma triggers.
3. **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Supporting farmers markets, community gardens, and physical activity programs can improve access to healthy food and encourage physical activity.
4. **Raising Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers, management strategies, and the importance of early diagnosis is essential.
5. **Fostering Community Partnerships:** Collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government is essential for creating a comprehensive approach to asthma management.
6. **Investing in Economic Development:** Creating job opportunities and reducing poverty can improve overall community health.

The journey to improve the community health of Beallsville is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It requires patience, perseverance, and a shared commitment to creating a healthier future for all residents. The air in Beallsville may be sweet, but it can be even sweeter when everyone can breathe freely and fully. By addressing the challenges and building on the strengths of this resilient community, we can help ensure that the breath of Beallsville is truly a breath of fresh air for generations to come.