16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 47.26 percent of the residents in 16738 has some form of health insurance. 18.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.79 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 16738 would have to travel an average of 15.09 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Kane. In a 20-mile radius, there are 363 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania.

## Breathing Easy in the Borough: An Asthma Score for Lewis Run, PA (ZIP Code 16738)

The Allegheny Mountains cradle Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, a borough etched into the heart of McKean County. Here, where the air often carries the crisp scent of pine and the Susquehanna River's headwaters murmur secrets, we’re not just talking about pretty scenery. We're talking about lungs. We're talking about *community health*, specifically, the respiratory health of the residents of ZIP Code 16738. This isn’t just a health report; it's an *Asthma Score* – a deep dive into the factors impacting respiratory well-being in Lewis Run, a snapshot of the challenges, and the potential for breathing easier.

**The Scorecard: A Framework for Understanding**

Our Asthma Score for Lewis Run won’t be a simple number. Instead, we'll explore the multifaceted elements that contribute to respiratory health, weaving a narrative that connects the physical environment, the social fabric, and the resources available to the community. We'll consider:

* **Environmental Factors:** Air quality, housing conditions, and proximity to potential irritants.
* **Demographics & Socioeconomic Indicators:** Age distribution, income levels, access to healthcare, and insurance coverage.
* **Lifestyle & Behavior:** Diet, exercise, smoking rates, and exposure to allergens.
* **Community Resources & Support:** Availability of healthcare providers, local wellness programs, and access to outdoor recreation.

**Scene One: The Whispers of the Wind**

Imagine a crisp autumn morning in Lewis Run. The sun, a golden coin, spills over the rolling hills. You’re standing near the intersection of Main Street and School Street, the heart of the borough. The air, normally invigorating, carries a faint, almost imperceptible scent – the hint of woodsmoke from a distant chimney, a whisper of pollen clinging to the breeze. This subtle cocktail of airborne particles is the first layer of our environmental assessment.

Lewis Run is, by its very nature, a community intertwined with the natural world. Its location, nestled amidst forested hills, means it's susceptible to seasonal changes in air quality. The autumn leaves, though beautiful, can contribute to increased particulate matter. Winter brings the potential for wood-burning stoves, which, while cozy, can also release pollutants. Summer, with its higher humidity, can foster mold growth in older homes.

**Digging Deeper: The Environmental Terrain**

To understand the environmental impact, we need to examine the specifics. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) monitors air quality in McKean County. While the data isn't granular enough to pinpoint conditions *specifically* in Lewis Run, the county-wide information provides a crucial baseline. We'll need to investigate:

* **Local Air Quality Data:** Examining DEP data for particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone levels, and any other relevant pollutants.
* **Housing Stock Assessment:** A drive through Lewis Run reveals a mix of housing types. Older homes, potentially with outdated insulation and ventilation, may be more prone to mold and dust mite infestations – significant asthma triggers. We need to understand the prevalence of older homes and the potential for housing-related environmental hazards.
* **Proximity to Potential Irritants:** Are there any industrial facilities nearby? Are there significant sources of vehicle emissions? Assessing the location of potential irritants is crucial.

**Scene Two: Faces of Lewis Run**

Let's step inside the Lewis Run Volunteer Fire Department, a hub of community activity. Here, volunteers are preparing for the annual Halloween parade. The faces are a mosaic – young families, retirees, long-time residents, and newcomers. This diversity is the essence of Lewis Run, and understanding the demographics is vital to our Asthma Score.

According to the latest Census data, Lewis Run is a small borough. The population is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of individuals from other racial or ethnic backgrounds. The age distribution is an important factor. A higher proportion of children and seniors, both more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, could influence the overall asthma prevalence.

**Demographics and Socioeconomic Factors: The Uneven Ground**

Beyond age and race, socioeconomic factors play a critical role. Income levels, access to healthcare, and insurance coverage can significantly impact respiratory health.

* **Income Levels:** Lower-income households may face challenges affording quality housing, healthcare, and nutritious food – all factors that can contribute to asthma triggers and poor management.
* **Healthcare Access:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists (like pulmonologists and allergists), and pharmacies within Lewis Run or nearby communities is crucial. Travel distance to healthcare providers can be a barrier for some residents.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The percentage of residents with health insurance, including those covered by Medicaid or Medicare, is a key indicator. Lack of insurance can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, worsening asthma outcomes.

**Scene Three: The Rhythm of Daily Life**

Imagine a Saturday morning. The aroma of coffee and frying bacon drifts from the windows of homes. Children are playing in the park, and a few folks are taking a stroll along the Allegheny River. These everyday activities offer clues about the lifestyle factors that impact respiratory health.

**Lifestyle & Behavior: Choices and Consequences**

* **Smoking Rates:** Smoking, both active and passive (secondhand smoke), is a major asthma trigger. Understanding the prevalence of smoking in Lewis Run is essential.
* **Diet and Nutrition:** A healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can support overall respiratory health. We need to assess access to healthy food options in Lewis Run. Are there local farmers' markets? Are there grocery stores with a wide selection of fresh produce?
* **Exercise and Outdoor Recreation:** Physical activity is crucial for lung health. Access to parks, trails, and other outdoor recreation opportunities is a significant factor. We'll explore the availability of these resources in Lewis Run.

**Scene Four: The Threads of Community**

Let's visit the Lewis Run Community Center. This is where the borough comes together. There are programs for seniors, activities for children, and events that foster a sense of belonging. Community support is a powerful force in promoting overall health, including respiratory well-being.

**Community Resources & Support: A Network of Care**

* **Healthcare Providers:** Identifying the primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies serving Lewis Run is a priority. We need to assess their capacity to provide asthma care.
* **Local Wellness Programs:** Are there any local wellness programs, such as asthma education classes, support groups, or exercise programs, available to residents?
* **School Health Programs:** The local school district plays a crucial role in the health of children. We'll investigate the school's asthma management policies and any educational programs offered to students and staff.
* **Emergency Services:** The efficiency of the local emergency services (ambulance, fire department) is crucial for managing asthma exacerbations.

**The Outdoor Recreation Factor**

Lewis Run's proximity to the Allegheny National Forest and the Allegheny River offers a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. Hiking, biking, fishing, and boating are all readily available. However, outdoor activities can also expose individuals to allergens like pollen and mold. We need to assess:

* **Accessibility:** How easily accessible are these outdoor spaces for all residents, including those with mobility limitations?
* **Air Quality Awareness:** Are there resources available to help residents monitor air quality and plan outdoor activities accordingly?
* **Allergen Management:** Are there programs or resources available to help residents manage their allergies while enjoying the outdoors?

**Scene Five: Building the Score**

Creating an Asthma Score for Lewis Run is a complex undertaking. It requires gathering data, analyzing information, and weaving it into a coherent narrative. We’ll use the information gathered to develop a comprehensive assessment of the factors that impact respiratory health in Lewis Run.

**The Score's Impact: A Call to Action**

The final Asthma Score won't just be a number. It will be a roadmap. It will highlight the strengths of Lewis Run and identify areas where improvements are needed. The score will be a catalyst for:

* **Community Education:** Raising awareness about asthma triggers, prevention strategies, and available resources.
* **Advocacy:** Advocating for policies and programs that support respiratory health, such as improved air quality monitoring, affordable housing initiatives, and access to healthcare.
* **Collaboration:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and local government to create a healthier environment for all residents.

**Breathing Easier, Together**

The goal isn't just to assign a score; it's to empower the residents of Lewis Run to breathe easier. By understanding the factors that impact respiratory health, we can work together to create a community where everyone can thrive, where the whispers of the wind are a source of joy, not a trigger for concern. The Asthma Score for Lewis Run is a starting point, a call to action, and a testament to the power of community. It's about ensuring that the air in Lewis Run remains as clear and invigorating as the spirit of its people.