15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.00 percent of the residents in 15083 has some form of health insurance. 44.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.54 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15083 would have to travel an average of 7.38 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Penn Highlands Mon Valley. In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,883 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of Sutersville: Taking the Pulse of Community Health in 15083

The Monongahela River, a ribbon of steel and history, snakes its way past Sutersville, Pennsylvania, a small borough nestled in the rolling hills of Westmoreland County. Here, in the 15083 ZIP code, the air hums with the quiet industry of a close-knit community. But beneath the surface of friendly waves and porch-swing conversations, a silent struggle plays out: the fight for respiratory health. This isn't a clinical report; it's a deep dive into the *vibe* of Sutersville, a community health assessment woven with the threads of daily life, aiming to understand the challenges and celebrate the strengths of breathing easy in 15083.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from a sun-drenched kitchen. That's the scent of Sutersville, a place where generations often live side-by-side. The demographics paint a picture of a predominantly white community, with a significant percentage of residents over the age of 65. This aging population, coupled with a moderate median household income, presents unique considerations for community health.

The presence of young families is also crucial. Picture children chasing fireflies on warm summer evenings, their laughter echoing through the streets. The health of these children, and the environment they grow up in, is paramount. The prevalence of asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, is a key indicator of community well-being. It's not just about medical treatment; it's about understanding the factors that contribute to flare-ups and creating a supportive environment for those affected.

**Places to Live: Homes, Habitats, and Havens**

The architectural landscape of Sutersville is a charming mix of old and new. Picture Victorian-era homes with wrap-around porches standing proudly alongside more modern, single-family dwellings. The housing stock, while generally affordable, can present challenges. Older homes, with their potential for mold, dust mites, and poor ventilation, can exacerbate respiratory conditions.

Let's step inside. Imagine a cozy living room, sunlight streaming through the windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. This is where the fight against asthma begins. The quality of indoor air is critical. Proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and the avoidance of irritants like strong cleaning products and perfumes are essential for maintaining a healthy home environment.

The availability of affordable, well-maintained housing is a cornerstone of community health. Access to safe and healthy living spaces directly impacts respiratory health, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Community**

Sutersville thrives on its sense of community. Picture the annual Fourth of July parade, a vibrant display of local pride, with residents lining the streets, cheering and waving flags. This strong sense of belonging is a powerful asset. Neighbors look out for each other, offering support and camaraderie.

This close-knit atmosphere can be leveraged to promote community health initiatives. Imagine a neighborhood watch program, not just for crime prevention, but also for health awareness. Neighbors checking in on each other, sharing information about asthma triggers, and offering support to those managing the condition.

The local fire department, a cornerstone of community safety, could play a vital role. They could offer educational programs on asthma management and first aid, providing valuable resources for residents.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty of Westmoreland County**

The rolling hills and lush forests surrounding Sutersville offer a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Imagine hiking trails winding through the woods, the crisp air filling your lungs. The natural beauty of the area is a powerful draw, encouraging residents to embrace a healthy lifestyle.

However, outdoor activities can also present challenges for individuals with asthma. Pollen, mold spores, and air pollution can trigger asthma symptoms. The key is to balance the benefits of outdoor activity with the need for careful management.

Access to well-maintained parks and recreational facilities is crucial. Imagine a local park with walking trails, a playground, and a community garden. These spaces provide opportunities for physical activity and social interaction, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation for Respiratory Health**

Sutersville benefits from its proximity to larger towns and cities, providing access to a range of healthcare services. However, the development of local wellness programs is essential for addressing the specific needs of the community.

Imagine a community health fair, held in the town square, featuring booths from local healthcare providers, pharmacies, and support groups. These events provide valuable information and resources for residents, promoting awareness of asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Collaboration between local healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations is key. Imagine a school nurse working with teachers to identify children with asthma and develop individualized asthma action plans.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

To truly understand the health of the community, we need to go beyond the numbers. The "Asthma Score" for Sutersville isn't just about the prevalence of the disease; it's about assessing the factors that contribute to it.

* **Housing Quality:** The condition of homes, with a focus on ventilation, mold remediation, and access to affordable, healthy housing.
* **Air Quality:** Monitoring both indoor and outdoor air quality, identifying and mitigating sources of pollution.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Availability of qualified healthcare professionals, including pulmonologists and allergists, and access to affordable medications and treatment.
* **Community Support:** The strength of community networks, including support groups, educational programs, and neighborhood initiatives.
* **Environmental Factors:** The impact of pollen, mold, and other environmental triggers on respiratory health.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Promoting healthy lifestyle choices, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and the avoidance of smoking.

**Vignette: The Weaver Family**

Let's meet the Weaver family. Sarah, a single mother, lives in a charming but older home with her two children, Emily and Tom. Emily, a bright and energetic 8-year-old, has asthma. Sarah works hard to keep their home clean and free of triggers, but the old furnace and the pollen-filled air during the spring months are constant challenges.

Imagine Sarah attending a community health workshop, learning about asthma management techniques and connecting with other parents facing similar challenges. Picture Emily participating in a school-based asthma program, learning how to recognize her symptoms and use her inhaler correctly.

This is the essence of community health: empowering individuals like Sarah and Emily to take control of their health and thrive in their community.

**Vignette: Mr. Henderson's Story**

Mr. Henderson, a retired carpenter, has lived in Sutersville his entire life. He loves spending time outdoors, gardening and enjoying the fresh air. However, his asthma has worsened in recent years.

Imagine Mr. Henderson attending a support group meeting, sharing his experiences and learning from others. Picture him receiving guidance from a healthcare professional on how to manage his asthma and enjoy his favorite activities safely.

This is the power of community: providing support, education, and resources to help individuals like Mr. Henderson live full and active lives.

**Challenges and Opportunities: Breathing Easier in 15083**

The challenges facing Sutersville are real. The aging population, the prevalence of older housing, and the potential for environmental triggers all contribute to the risk of respiratory problems.

However, the opportunities are even greater. The strong sense of community, the access to outdoor recreation, and the potential for developing local wellness programs offer a unique opportunity to improve the respiratory health of the community.

By focusing on the key areas outlined in the Asthma Score – housing quality, air quality, access to healthcare, community support, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices – Sutersville can create a healthier environment for all its residents.

**The Future: A Breath of Fresh Air**

The future of community health in Sutersville is bright. Imagine a community where:

* Homes are well-maintained and free of asthma triggers.
* The air is clean and safe to breathe.
* Healthcare services are readily available and accessible.
* Community members support each other in managing their health.
* Children can play freely outdoors, without fear of asthma flare-ups.
* The annual Fourth of July parade is a celebration of health and well-being.

This is the vision for Sutersville: a community where everyone can breathe easy, where the air is filled with the sounds of laughter, the scent of freshly baked bread, and the promise of a healthy future. The journey to achieving this vision requires a collaborative effort, a commitment to community, and a shared desire to create a place where everyone can thrive. The breath of Sutersville depends on it.