15626, Delmont, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 15626, Delmont, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.94 percent of the residents in 15626 has some form of health insurance. 40.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.75 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15626 would have to travel an average of 7.01 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,175 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15626, Delmont, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of Delmont: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 15626

The air hums in Delmont, Pennsylvania. Not with the drone of industry, thankfully, but with the quiet energy of a community. It’s a hum that carries the laughter of children on the playground, the rhythmic thud of a baseball bat connecting with a pitch, the rustle of leaves in the sprawling yards. But for some residents, that hum is punctuated by a different sound: the wheeze of asthma. Understanding the prevalence of asthma, and the factors that contribute to it, is crucial for building a truly healthy community. This is where the "Asthma Score" comes in, a metric that, when examined closely, can illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of Delmont's community health landscape, specifically within the 15626 ZIP code.

Let's dive in.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Delmont Vibe**

Delmont, nestled in Westmoreland County, isn't a sprawling metropolis. It's a town that thrives on its small-town charm, a place where neighbors know each other and where community events are a cornerstone of the social fabric. The demographics of 15626 paint a picture of relative stability. The population is predominantly white, with a growing but still small percentage of residents identifying as belonging to other racial or ethnic groups. The median age skews slightly older, suggesting a blend of established families and a significant population of retirees who have chosen Delmont for its tranquility and accessibility.

The neighborhood vibe is a key component of the Asthma Score. It's not just about the physical environment; it's about the social and emotional well-being of residents. Delmont boasts a strong sense of community. The annual Delmont Apple 'N Arts Festival, a vibrant explosion of local art, crafts, and, of course, apples, is a testament to this spirit. The volunteer fire department, the local library, and the various church groups all contribute to a network of support that can buffer against stressors that might exacerbate asthma symptoms.

However, the relative affluence of some areas, while contributing to a higher quality of life, can also create disparities. The Asthma Score is sensitive to these differences. Are there pockets of the community where housing quality is lower, leading to increased exposure to allergens like mold and dust mites? Are there areas with less access to fresh food, potentially impacting respiratory health through poor nutrition? These are the nuances that the Asthma Score helps to uncover.

**The Physical Environment: Houses, Parks, and the Breathable Air**

The houses of Delmont are a mix of styles, from charming Victorian homes to more modern ranch-style dwellings. The age and condition of these homes play a critical role in the Asthma Score. Older homes, while often beautiful, can harbor hidden allergens. Dust mites thrive in carpets and upholstered furniture. Mold can lurk in damp basements and behind walls. These microscopic irritants can trigger asthma attacks.

The proximity to green spaces is another crucial factor. Delmont is fortunate to have several parks and recreational areas. The local ballfields are bustling with activity during the spring and summer months. These parks offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, which, in moderation, can be beneficial for respiratory health. However, the presence of pollen and other airborne allergens during certain seasons must be considered.

The quality of the air itself is paramount. While Delmont isn't known for heavy industry, it's important to monitor air quality data. Are there seasonal spikes in pollution? Are there localized sources of emissions that could be contributing to asthma triggers? The Asthma Score needs to take these environmental factors into account.

**Places to Live: A Closer Look at the Neighborhoods**

Let's imagine a few vignettes, snapshots of life in Delmont, to illustrate how the Asthma Score might vary across different neighborhoods within the 15626 ZIP code.

* **The Quiet Cul-de-Sac:** Picture a quiet cul-de-sac lined with well-maintained homes, each with a manicured lawn. The air is clean, the streets are quiet, and children play safely in the yards. This neighborhood likely scores favorably on the Asthma Score. However, even here, factors like indoor air quality and the presence of pets can impact individual asthma risk.

* **The Historic District:** Stately Victorian homes line the streets of the historic district. The charm is undeniable, but the age of the homes means potential for allergens. The Asthma Score here might be slightly lower, requiring careful attention to home maintenance and allergen control.

* **The Apartment Complex:** A modern apartment complex offers a more affordable housing option. The Asthma Score here depends on factors like ventilation, pest control, and the presence of smoking policies. Close proximity to busy roads could also contribute to higher asthma risk.

**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Easier Together**

Delmont isn't just a collection of houses; it's a community that cares. The success of the Asthma Score depends on the availability of local wellness programs and resources.

* **The Delmont Public Library:** The library isn't just a place to borrow books; it's a hub for community information. The library could host workshops on asthma management, providing resources for families to understand and control their children's asthma. They could also partner with local healthcare providers to offer free screenings and educational materials.

* **The Local Schools:** Schools play a crucial role in educating children about asthma triggers and management. Asthma-friendly school policies, including guidelines for medication administration and emergency response, are essential.

* **Community Health Initiatives:** Partnering with local healthcare providers to offer free asthma screenings and educational programs could significantly improve the Asthma Score.

* **Support Groups:** Creating support groups for individuals with asthma and their families can provide a vital network of emotional support and practical advice.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air (With Caution)**

Delmont's parks and outdoor spaces are a valuable asset. But for individuals with asthma, outdoor recreation requires careful planning.

* **Seasonal Considerations:** Pollen counts fluctuate throughout the year. Providing residents with information about pollen forecasts can help them plan outdoor activities accordingly.

* **Air Quality Alerts:** Monitoring air quality and issuing alerts during periods of high pollution can help residents with asthma avoid exacerbating their symptoms.

* **Asthma-Friendly Parks:** Planting asthma-friendly trees and shrubs can reduce the presence of common allergens in parks.

* **Education and Awareness:** Educating residents about asthma triggers in the outdoor environment, such as pollen, mold, and air pollution, can empower them to manage their condition effectively.

**The Road Ahead: Refining the Asthma Score**

The Asthma Score isn't a static number; it's a dynamic tool that should be continually refined and updated. It requires ongoing data collection, analysis, and community engagement.

* **Data Collection:** Tracking asthma prevalence rates, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations related to asthma within the 15626 ZIP code is essential.

* **Environmental Monitoring:** Regularly monitoring air quality, pollen counts, and other environmental factors can help identify potential asthma triggers.

* **Community Feedback:** Gathering feedback from residents about their experiences with asthma and their access to resources is crucial.

* **Collaboration:** Partnering with local healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and government agencies is essential for implementing effective asthma management programs.

The Asthma Score in Delmont is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. By understanding the factors that contribute to asthma prevalence, Delmont can take proactive steps to create a healthier environment for everyone. It's about breathing easier, together, and ensuring that the hum of Delmont remains a symphony of health and vitality. The journey toward a healthier Delmont is a marathon, not a sprint, and the Asthma Score is a valuable tool to guide us along the way.