44628, Glenmont, Ohio Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 44628, Glenmont, Ohio is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.23 percent of the residents in 44628 has some form of health insurance. 24.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.14 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44628 would have to travel an average of 11.92 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pomerene Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 223 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44628, Glenmont, Ohio.

## Breathing Easy in Glenmont: An Asthma Score for Community Health in 44628

The air hangs thick and sweet over Glenmont, Ohio. Not the cloying sweetness of processed sugar, but the honest, earthy perfume of farmland, a blend of freshly turned soil, hay bales baking under the sun, and the faint, spicy whisper of the nearby Mohican State Park. It’s a scent that should soothe the soul, fill the lungs, and paint a picture of idyllic rural living. But for some residents of ZIP Code 44628, that same air can become a silent enemy, a trigger for the wheeze, the cough, the struggle to breathe – the reality of asthma.

This isn't just a medical condition; it's a community health issue, a complex tapestry woven from genetics, environment, access, and lifestyle. To understand the true “Asthma Score” for Glenmont, we need to peel back the layers and examine the factors that influence the respiratory health of its residents.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Dust of History**

Glenmont, tucked away in the heart of Holmes County, is a place where time seems to slow down. The rolling hills, dotted with family farms, are a testament to a way of life deeply rooted in tradition. According to recent census data, 44628 is predominantly white, with a significant Amish population. This demographic makeup is crucial to understanding the community's health profile.

The Amish lifestyle, with its emphasis on manual labor and outdoor activities, presents a unique paradox. On one hand, the constant physical activity and exposure to fresh air could be protective against asthma. However, the proximity to livestock, the use of wood-burning stoves, and the potential for exposure to agricultural allergens can also exacerbate respiratory problems. This creates a complex interplay, a nuanced picture that requires more than just surface-level observation.

The history of Glenmont, like many rural communities, is intertwined with its agricultural past. The legacy of farming, the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and the potential for exposure to mold and dust in older homes all contribute to the environmental factors that can trigger asthma. Consider the old farmhouse, its weathered siding shielding generations from the elements. The dust mites that thrive in the carpets, the hidden mold lurking in the damp basement, the lingering scent of woodsmoke – all potential triggers that can silently impact a child’s lungs.

**Places to Live: A Breath of Fresh Air or a Silent Threat?**

The type of housing in Glenmont varies, from sprawling farmhouses to more modest single-family dwellings and a scattering of mobile homes. The condition of the housing stock plays a significant role in asthma prevalence. Older homes, with their potential for mold, mildew, and poor ventilation, often present a greater risk.

Imagine a young family moving into a charming, but older, home. The peeling paint, the musty smell in the basement, the cracks in the foundation – all subtle signs of potential asthma triggers. The parents, perhaps unaware of the risks, may unknowingly expose their children to these hazards. This highlights the importance of home inspections, access to affordable housing repairs, and educational programs that empower residents to create healthier living environments.

The proximity to agricultural land also influences the air quality. While the open spaces are a visual feast, the use of pesticides and fertilizers can release airborne irritants. The seasonal burning of fields can also contribute to poor air quality, particularly during certain times of the year. The location of homes relative to these agricultural practices is a critical factor in assessing the asthma risk.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community, Connection, and Care**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Glenmont is characterized by a strong sense of community. Neighbors know each other, they help each other, and they share a deep connection to the land. This close-knit community can be a powerful asset in addressing health issues.

Picture a church gathering, a potluck dinner under the shade of a towering oak tree. The shared meals, the laughter, the sense of belonging – these are the hallmarks of a healthy community. However, the same community that fosters connection can also inadvertently perpetuate health disparities. If information about asthma management and prevention is not readily available, if access to healthcare is limited, or if there is a lack of awareness about environmental triggers, the community's strengths can be undermined.

The local schools play a vital role in promoting community health. They can be hubs for disseminating information about asthma, providing resources for families, and educating children about healthy lifestyles. The presence of school nurses, the availability of asthma action plans, and the implementation of policies that protect children with asthma are all crucial elements of a healthy school environment.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep, But with Caution**

Glenmont offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Mohican State Park provides access to hiking trails, camping grounds, and opportunities for fishing and boating. These activities can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.

Imagine a family hiking through the lush forest, the children giggling as they splash in a creek. The fresh air, the physical activity, the connection to nature – these are all powerful antidotes to the stresses of modern life. However, for individuals with asthma, outdoor activities can also present challenges.

Pollen, mold spores, and air pollutants can trigger asthma symptoms. The presence of allergens in the environment, the timing of outdoor activities, and the availability of quick-relief medications are all important considerations. The community needs to provide access to information about pollen counts, air quality alerts, and strategies for managing asthma symptoms during outdoor activities.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Breath of Fresh Air**

The success of any community health initiative hinges on the availability and accessibility of local wellness programs. In Glenmont, this includes access to quality healthcare, educational programs, and support services.

The local healthcare providers, including physicians, nurses, and respiratory therapists, are on the front lines of asthma management. They play a critical role in diagnosing asthma, prescribing medications, and educating patients about self-management techniques. However, the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, may be limited in a rural setting.

Educational programs are essential for empowering individuals with asthma and their families. These programs should cover topics such as asthma triggers, medication management, asthma action plans, and emergency preparedness. The local schools, community centers, and churches can all serve as venues for these programs.

Support services, such as asthma support groups and home visiting programs, can provide valuable resources for individuals with asthma and their families. These programs can offer emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.

**A Scorecard for Glenmont: Assessing the Asthma Landscape**

To truly understand the asthma situation in 44628, we need to develop a “scorecard” that reflects the various factors discussed above. This scorecard should consider the following:

* **Demographics:** Age distribution, racial and ethnic composition, and socioeconomic status.
* **Housing:** Age and condition of housing stock, presence of mold and allergens, and access to affordable housing repairs.
* **Environment:** Air quality monitoring data, proximity to agricultural activities, and seasonal variations in pollen counts.
* **Healthcare Access:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and respiratory therapists.
* **Education:** Availability of asthma education programs for patients, families, and school staff.
* **Community Support:** Presence of asthma support groups, home visiting programs, and community health initiatives.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Availability of information about air quality and pollen counts, and access to resources for managing asthma symptoms during outdoor activities.

By gathering data on these factors, we can create a comprehensive picture of the asthma landscape in Glenmont. This information can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, to prioritize interventions, and to track progress over time.

**Breathing Easy: A Vision for the Future**

The goal is not just to reduce asthma prevalence, but to create a community where everyone can breathe easy. This requires a collaborative effort, a partnership between healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and residents.

Imagine a future where:

* Every child with asthma has an asthma action plan.
* Homes are healthy and free from asthma triggers.
* The air is clean and safe to breathe.
* The community is informed and supportive.
* Outdoor recreation is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

This is not just a medical goal; it's a vision for a healthier, more vibrant Glenmont. It's a vision where the sweet scent of the air, the gentle sway of the trees, and the warmth of the community can be enjoyed by all, without the fear of a wheeze or a struggle to breathe. It’s a future where the Asthma Score reflects not just a number, but the collective breath of a community thriving in health and well-being. And that, in the heart of Ohio, is a future worth fighting for, one breath at a time.