17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.69 percent of the residents in 17104 has some form of health insurance. 57.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.15 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17104 would have to travel an average of 1.26 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals. In a 20-mile radius, there are 20,098 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

## Breathing Easy in 17104: A Community Health Score for Harrisburg, PA

The air hums in 17104. Not just with the distant drone of traffic weaving through Harrisburg, but with the quiet thrum of life – the laughter of kids on swings, the sizzle of a grill on a warm evening, the rustle of leaves in the park. But for some residents, that air, that very breath of life, is a battleground. This is where the Asthma Score comes in. It's not a simple number, but a snapshot of community health, a deep dive into the factors impacting respiratory well-being in this vibrant, complex corner of Harrisburg.

We’re not talking about sterile statistics here. We’re talking about the real people who call 17104 home, the families navigating the challenges and celebrating the triumphs of daily life. We’re talking about the air they breathe, the spaces they inhabit, and the opportunities they have to thrive.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Experiences**

17104 is a mosaic. It’s a neighborhood where the echoes of history resonate, where the past informs the present. A significant portion of the population identifies as Black or African American, with a notable Hispanic or Latino presence adding further layers of cultural richness. This diversity is a strength, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of shared experience and unique perspectives. But it also presents a complex picture when considering health disparities.

Imagine Mrs. Rodriguez, her hands calloused from years of tending her vibrant garden, now struggling to catch her breath after a simple walk to the corner store. Or young Jamal, his eyes sparkling with the joy of playing basketball, forced to sit on the sidelines because of a persistent cough. These are not isolated incidents. They are the realities of living with asthma, a condition that can be exacerbated by environmental factors and limited access to quality healthcare.

The median household income in 17104 is lower than the state average, and a significant percentage of residents live below the poverty line. This economic reality often translates into challenges accessing nutritious food, safe housing, and consistent medical care – all critical components of asthma management. The prevalence of asthma, and its severity, can be intricately linked to these socioeconomic factors.

**Places to Live: Where Home is More Than Just a House**

The housing landscape in 17104 is diverse. You’ll find stately Victorian homes with meticulously kept lawns, alongside more modest row houses, their brick facades weathered by time. There are also apartment complexes, bustling with families, and public housing units, providing essential shelter for many.

Picture this: a crisp autumn morning, the sun painting the brick of a row house in warm hues. Inside, a young child, wheezing and struggling to breathe, is comforted by a parent who knows the familiar routine of inhalers and nebulizers. The quality of housing is paramount. Older homes, while charming, can harbor hidden asthma triggers: mold, dust mites, and pests. The presence of lead paint, common in older buildings, can further complicate respiratory health.

Consider the apartment complex on the edge of the neighborhood, its windows overlooking a busy street. The constant flow of traffic contributes to air pollution, a known asthma trigger. The lack of green spaces, the absence of trees to filter the air, further compounds the problem.

Conversely, think of the community garden, a vibrant oasis of green tucked away behind a row of houses. Here, residents cultivate not only fresh produce but also a sense of community. The garden provides a safe, outdoor space, a respite from the concrete jungle, a place where children can run and play without the fear of triggering their asthma.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Sounds and Sensibilities**

17104 pulsates with a unique energy. It’s a place where neighbors know each other, where front porches become impromptu meeting places, and where the aroma of cooking wafts through the air, a blend of spices and traditions.

Imagine the vibrant sounds of a summer evening: the rhythmic beat of music spilling from a community center, the laughter of children playing tag in the park, the murmur of conversations carried on the breeze. This is the heartbeat of 17104.

But this vibrant atmosphere can also present challenges. The proximity to industrial areas, the presence of heavy traffic, and the potential for exposure to environmental pollutants can all contribute to poor air quality. The lack of sidewalks in certain areas, the absence of safe crosswalks, can limit opportunities for physical activity, another crucial element in managing asthma.

Consider the local corner store, a hub of activity. While offering convenience, it might also sell sugary drinks and processed snacks, contributing to unhealthy dietary habits that can worsen asthma symptoms.

**Outdoor Recreation: Finding Breath in the Open Air**

Despite the challenges, 17104 offers pockets of green space, opportunities for outdoor recreation that are vital for community health.

Think of Reservoir Park, a sprawling expanse of green, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and panoramic views of the city. Imagine families picnicking under the shade of towering trees, children chasing butterflies, and adults enjoying a leisurely stroll. These spaces are crucial for promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and providing a respite from the urban environment.

Consider the local YMCA, offering fitness classes and recreational programs, providing a safe and accessible space for exercise. The presence of community gardens, as mentioned earlier, provides another avenue for outdoor activity, fostering a connection to nature and promoting healthy eating habits.

However, access to these resources is not always equitable. Some parks may lack adequate maintenance, while others may be located far from residential areas, making them difficult to access for those without transportation.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building Bridges to Health**

The strength of 17104 lies in its community spirit. Numerous local organizations are working tirelessly to improve the health and well-being of residents.

Imagine the dedicated staff at a community health center, providing affordable healthcare services, including asthma management and education. Picture the outreach workers, knocking on doors, connecting families with resources and support.

Consider the asthma education programs offered in schools and community centers, empowering children and their families with the knowledge and skills to manage their condition. These programs often include information on identifying triggers, using inhalers correctly, and developing asthma action plans.

Think of the local food banks and pantries, providing access to nutritious food, helping to address the dietary needs of families struggling with asthma.

These programs are the lifelines of the community, but their effectiveness depends on sustained funding, community support, and collaboration between various stakeholders.

**The Asthma Score: A Call to Action**

The Asthma Score for 17104 isn't just about numbers. It’s about understanding the complex interplay of factors that impact respiratory health. It’s about recognizing the challenges faced by residents and celebrating the strengths of the community.

The score would likely reflect a moderate to high risk for asthma exacerbation, based on the factors discussed. This is not a condemnation, but a call to action.

To improve the Asthma Score, the following are crucial:

* **Addressing Housing Quality:** Investing in home repair programs to address mold, pests, and lead paint hazards. Promoting energy-efficient upgrades to reduce utility costs and improve indoor air quality.
* **Improving Air Quality:** Advocating for policies to reduce air pollution from traffic and industrial sources. Planting trees and creating green spaces to filter the air and provide recreational opportunities.
* **Enhancing Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare services, including asthma specialists and respiratory therapists. Increasing the availability of asthma education programs and self-management support.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Supporting community gardens, farmers' markets, and healthy food initiatives. Encouraging physical activity through safe walking and biking routes, and promoting access to recreational facilities.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and local government. Engaging residents in the development and implementation of health initiatives.

The journey to improve the Asthma Score in 17104 is a collective effort. It requires the dedication of healthcare professionals, the commitment of community leaders, and the active participation of residents. It’s about creating a community where every breath is a celebration of life, where children can run and play without fear, and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. It's about building a healthier, more vibrant 17104, one breath at a time. The air hums, and it’s time to make that hum a song of health.