16636, Dysart, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 16636, Dysart, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.31 percent of the residents in 16636 has some form of health insurance. 27.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.26 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 16636 would have to travel an average of 8.79 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Altoona. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,536 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 16636, Dysart, Pennsylvania.

## The Dysart Dynamo: Unpacking Asthma and Igniting Community Health in 16636

The air hums differently in Dysart, Pennsylvania. Not with the low thrum of industry, but with a quiet, persistent energy. It's the energy of a close-knit community, a place where neighbors know each other, where the scent of freshly cut grass mingles with the faint, nostalgic aroma of woodsmoke from the approaching autumn. But beneath this idyllic surface, a reality exists that demands our attention: the health of our community, particularly the prevalence of asthma. This is our deep dive into the heart of 16636, a look at its demographics, its lifestyle, its challenges, and its potential to become a beacon of community health, especially for those battling this persistent respiratory condition.

**Understanding the Breath of Dysart: Demographics and the Asthma Score**

Before we can build a healthier Dysart, we need to understand the landscape. ZIP Code 16636 is nestled in the heart of Cambria County, a region historically shaped by coal mining and agriculture. This history has etched itself into the very fabric of the community, influencing its demographics, its economy, and, inevitably, its health profile.

The population of 16636 is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of residents identifying as belonging to other racial or ethnic groups. The median age skews slightly older than the national average, reflecting a trend seen in many rural communities. Families are the backbone of Dysart, with a significant number of households occupied by married couples with children. This demographic makeup provides a strong foundation for community building, but it also highlights the importance of addressing the health needs of children and families, particularly those vulnerable to asthma.

The economic landscape, while evolving, still bears the marks of its industrial past. The unemployment rate fluctuates, and the median household income is lower than the national average. This can impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing – all factors that can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The presence of older housing stock, potentially with issues like mold and poor ventilation, can also contribute to poor indoor air quality, a significant trigger for asthma.

**The Asthma Score: More Than Just a Number**

So, what does this mean for our "Asthma Score"? It's not a single, definitive number, but a composite understanding of the factors influencing asthma prevalence and severity within 16636. It’s a snapshot of the community’s respiratory health, informed by data, observations, and the lived experiences of its residents. We're not just looking at the number of asthma diagnoses; we're examining the environmental, social, and economic factors that contribute to the disease.

This includes:

* **Environmental Factors:** Air quality, pollen counts, the presence of allergens like dust mites and mold in homes, and exposure to outdoor pollutants.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Income levels, access to healthcare, health insurance coverage, and the availability of healthy food options.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking rates, physical activity levels, and access to recreational opportunities.
* **Healthcare Access:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists (like pulmonologists), and asthma education programs.

**Breathing Easy: Places to Live and the Neighborhood Vibe**

The character of a community is often reflected in its housing options and neighborhood vibes. In Dysart, you'll find a mix of housing styles, from charming, older homes with character to newer, more modern constructions. The cost of living is generally lower than in more urban areas, making homeownership accessible to many. However, the age of some housing stock can present challenges, as mentioned earlier.

Imagine this: a crisp autumn morning in Dysart. The sun casts long shadows across the front yards, where pumpkins sit plump and ready for carving. A young boy, maybe eight years old, is carefully raking leaves in his yard, his cheeks flushed with exertion. He pauses, takes a deep breath, and then, a subtle wheeze. His mother, watching from the porch, knows the signs. She gently guides him inside, reaching for his inhaler. This is the reality for many families in Dysart.

The "neighborhood vibe" in Dysart is one of genuine connection. People wave to each other from their porches, gather at the local diner for coffee, and support each other through thick and thin. This strong sense of community is a powerful asset in addressing health challenges. Neighbors can look out for each other, share information, and provide support to those managing asthma.

**The Outdoor Oasis: Recreation and the Fight Against Asthma**

Dysart offers a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities, a crucial element in promoting a healthy lifestyle. The surrounding countryside is dotted with rolling hills, forests, and streams, providing ample space for hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the fresh air.

Picture this: a group of friends, laughing and chatting, hiking a trail in the nearby state forest. The air is crisp and clean, scented with pine and damp earth. For those with asthma, choosing the right time and location for outdoor activities is crucial. Understanding pollen counts, avoiding high-pollution days, and having their rescue inhaler readily available is essential.

The local parks and recreation areas offer opportunities for organized sports, playgrounds for children, and spaces for community gatherings. These spaces can be utilized to promote physical activity and provide asthma education programs.

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

The heart of community health lies in the availability and accessibility of local wellness programs. In Dysart, several initiatives are already underway, and there's significant potential for expansion and innovation.

* **Healthcare Providers:** Local physicians and clinics play a critical role in diagnosing and managing asthma. Their efforts to provide comprehensive asthma care, including education on triggers, medication management, and emergency preparedness, are vital.
* **Schools:** Schools can implement asthma-friendly policies, such as allowing students to keep their inhalers with them and providing asthma education for students and staff.
* **Community Organizations:** Local organizations, such as the YMCA or senior centers, can offer exercise programs tailored to individuals with asthma, educational workshops on asthma management, and support groups for families affected by the condition.
* **Public Health Initiatives:** Public health departments can conduct asthma surveillance, monitor air quality, and implement programs to reduce environmental triggers.

**Vignette: The Farmer's Market and the Breath of Community**

Imagine the Dysart Farmer's Market, bustling with activity on a Saturday morning. Local farmers display their fresh produce, bursting with color and flavor. A young mother carefully selects tomatoes and peppers, knowing that a healthy diet is crucial for her child's asthma management. A community health worker is on hand, offering free asthma screenings and educational materials. Children with asthma are playing games in a designated area, supervised by volunteers, learning about asthma triggers and how to manage their symptoms. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and the sounds of laughter and conversation. This is the essence of a community working together to create a healthier environment.

**Challenges and Opportunities: The Path Forward**

Dysart faces challenges in addressing asthma, including limited access to specialized healthcare, the potential for environmental triggers in older housing, and the need for increased awareness and education. However, these challenges also present opportunities.

* **Collaboration:** Building strong partnerships between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government is essential.
* **Education:** Increasing awareness about asthma triggers, symptoms, and management strategies is crucial.
* **Prevention:** Implementing programs to reduce environmental triggers, promote healthy lifestyles, and improve air quality is vital.
* **Advocacy:** Advocating for policies that support community health, such as affordable housing, access to healthcare, and environmental protection, is essential.

**The Dysart Dynamo: A Future of Healthy Lungs**

The future of community health in 16636 is bright. By focusing on the unique needs of its residents, by leveraging its strong sense of community, and by embracing innovation, Dysart can become a model for asthma management and overall wellness. It's about more than just treating a disease; it's about creating a community where everyone can breathe easy, where children can run and play without fear, and where the air hums with the energy of health and vitality. The Dysart Dynamo is ready to ignite, fueled by the spirit of its people and the unwavering commitment to a healthier future.