16927, Harrison Valley, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 16927, Harrison Valley, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.19 percent of the residents in 16927 has some form of health insurance. 49.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.62 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 16927 would have to travel an average of 20.71 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Cole. In a 20-mile radius, there are 96 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 16927, Harrison Valley, Pennsylvania.

## The Asthma Score: Breathing Easy in Harrison Valley (ZIP Code 16927)

The air in Harrison Valley, Pennsylvania, hangs thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. It’s a scent that, for many, evokes a deep breath, a sense of peace. But for those battling asthma, that simple act of breathing can be a daily challenge, a constant negotiation with their own bodies and the environment around them. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a community issue, a reflection of the interwoven threads of community health, lifestyle, and the very fabric of life in the 16927 ZIP code.

We’re not talking about statistics here. We’re talking about life. We’re talking about the kids who can't quite keep up on the playground, the adults who find themselves winded after a simple walk to the mailbox, the families whose lives are shaped, sometimes subtly, sometimes dramatically, by the invisible enemy of asthma. This article isn’t a cold analysis; it's an exploration of how Harrison Valley, its people, and its resources, contribute to the "Asthma Score" – the overall ease with which residents breathe, live, and thrive.

**The Landscape of Breath: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Harrison Valley is a whisper of a town, nestled in the heart of Potter County. Think rolling hills, vast stretches of farmland, and a population that hovers around the 700 mark. The demographics are overwhelmingly white, with a median age that skews older than the national average. This aging population, coupled with the rural setting, presents both opportunities and challenges when it comes to community health.

Imagine a crisp autumn morning. The sun, a molten coin in the sky, casts long shadows across the valley. You see a woman, perhaps in her late 60s, carefully tending her small garden. Her movements are deliberate, her breath measured. She pauses, leans on her trowel, and takes a slow, deep breath. This is the essence of Harrison Valley – a connection to the land, a slower pace of life. But for someone with asthma, that connection to the land can be a double-edged sword.

The air, while generally clean, can be impacted by seasonal changes. Pollen counts fluctuate wildly, especially during the spring and summer months. Agricultural practices, while essential to the community's economy, can also contribute to airborne irritants. Dust from tilling fields, the application of pesticides, even the scent of freshly cut hay – all can trigger asthma symptoms.

**Where We Live: Homes, Habitats, and the Asthma Score**

The homes in Harrison Valley are a diverse mix, reflecting the community's history and its current needs. There are charming, historic farmhouses, cozy bungalows, and modern, energy-efficient homes. The quality of housing plays a significant role in the Asthma Score.

Consider a young family, newly arrived in the valley. They've purchased a fixer-upper, a charming Victorian with potential. But the house has been neglected. Mold lurks in the damp basement, dust mites thrive in the old carpets, and the windows don't seal properly, allowing allergens to seep in. This family, particularly if they have a child with asthma, faces a significant challenge. They need to address the environmental triggers within their home to improve their Asthma Score.

Contrast this with a newly built, energy-efficient home. The air filtration system is state-of-the-art, the materials are hypoallergenic, and the home is designed to minimize allergens. The family living here starts with a significant advantage in managing asthma.

The availability of affordable, well-maintained housing is crucial. The community needs to support initiatives that promote healthy homes, such as home inspection programs, grants for mold remediation, and educational workshops on allergen control.

**The Vibe of the Valley: Neighborhood and Community Health**

Harrison Valley isn't just a collection of houses; it's a community. The neighborhood vibe is one of quiet resilience, of neighbors helping neighbors. This sense of community is a powerful asset in improving the Asthma Score.

Picture a local church hosting a community health fair. Volunteers offer free asthma screenings, provide information on asthma management, and connect residents with local resources. A local pharmacist offers a workshop on proper inhaler technique. This is the heart of community health – proactive outreach, education, and support.

The local school plays a vital role. Teachers are trained to recognize asthma symptoms and provide assistance to students. The school nurse is a critical resource for students with asthma, ensuring they have access to their medication and a safe learning environment. The school also promotes healthy lifestyles, encouraging physical activity and providing nutritious meals.

**Breathing Deep: Outdoor Recreation and the Asthma Score**

The natural beauty of Harrison Valley is a major draw. Hiking trails wind through the forests, offering breathtaking views. The nearby Genesee River provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking. But for those with asthma, outdoor recreation can be a double-edged sword.

Imagine a young boy, eager to join his friends on a hike. He loves the feeling of the wind in his hair, the thrill of exploring the woods. But the exertion, the pollen, the changes in temperature can trigger an asthma attack. This is where education and preparedness become crucial.

The community can support outdoor recreation by:

* **Providing accessible information on pollen counts and air quality.**
* **Creating asthma-friendly trails with easy access and rest stops.**
* **Offering asthma-friendly outdoor activities, such as guided walks with breaks and education on managing asthma symptoms.**
* **Promoting awareness of local emergency services and ensuring access to epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens) in public spaces.**

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Harrison Valley**

Harrison Valley, while small, isn't without its resources. The local medical clinic is a crucial access point for healthcare, providing asthma diagnosis, treatment, and management. The clinic's commitment to patient education is essential in improving the Asthma Score.

The community can also benefit from:

* **Partnerships with regional hospitals and healthcare providers to offer specialized asthma care.**
* **Support groups for individuals and families affected by asthma.**
* **Wellness programs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation programs and weight management classes.**
* **Advocacy for policies that improve air quality and reduce environmental triggers.**

**The Asthma Score: A Collective Responsibility**

The Asthma Score in Harrison Valley is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's commitment to health, well-being, and the quality of life for all its residents. It's about creating an environment where everyone can breathe easy, where children can play without fear, and where adults can enjoy the simple pleasures of life without the constant worry of asthma.

Consider an elderly resident, a lifelong resident of the valley. She remembers a time when asthma was a silent struggle, a burden carried alone. Now, she sees a community that's actively working to improve the Asthma Score. She sees neighbors helping neighbors, healthcare providers providing support, and a growing awareness of the importance of healthy living.

This is the true measure of the Asthma Score: the collective effort to create a healthier, more vibrant Harrison Valley. It's a journey, not a destination. And it's a journey that requires the participation of every resident, every business, and every organization in the community. It's about breathing together, supporting each other, and ensuring that the air in Harrison Valley, Pennsylvania, remains a source of peace, not a source of struggle. The scent of pine and damp earth should be a welcome invitation, not a warning. The Asthma Score in 16927 is a work in progress, a testament to the resilience and the heart of a small town striving for a healthier future.