17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17730 has some form of health insurance. 78.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.57 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17730 would have to travel an average of 8.67 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Muncy. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,174 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania.

## Dewart's Breath of Fresh Air: An Asthma Score Snapshot of Community Health in 17730

The Susquehanna River, a shimmering ribbon of life, snakes its way past Dewart, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled in the heart of the Keystone State. Here, where the air hums with the quiet industry of a bygone era and the vibrant energy of a close-knit population, we take a deep dive into the community health landscape of ZIP code 17730. We're not just looking at numbers; we're breathing in the atmosphere, feeling the pulse of this place, and assessing its “Asthma Score” – a metaphorical measure of the community's overall respiratory health, reflecting the interplay of environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and access to care.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Breath We Share**

Dewart, a community of approximately 1,000 souls, is more than just a dot on the map. It's a tapestry woven from the threads of family, tradition, and resilience. The demographic profile, though not a crystal ball, offers crucial clues. The population skews towards an older demographic, a reflection of the long-standing families who call this place home. This is significant. Older adults are often more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, including asthma, due to age-related changes in lung function and a higher prevalence of co-morbidities.

The racial makeup of 17730 is predominantly white, with a small but growing representation of other ethnicities. This homogeneity, while fostering a strong sense of community, also presents a challenge. Diverse perspectives and experiences are crucial for building a truly comprehensive understanding of health needs.

Income levels in Dewart, like many rural communities, tend to be modest. This economic reality is a critical factor in our Asthma Score assessment. Lower incomes can translate to limited access to quality healthcare, including preventative care and asthma management. It can also mean living in older housing stock, which might harbor allergens like mold and dust mites, triggers for asthma.

**The Vibe: A Neighborhood's Breath**

Imagine a crisp autumn morning in Dewart. The air is thick with the scent of woodsmoke from chimneys, a familiar aroma that speaks of cozy evenings and the changing seasons. The neighborhood vibe is undeniably friendly. Neighbors wave from their porches, children play freely in yards, and the local general store is a hub of social activity. This sense of connection, this feeling of belonging, is a powerful buffer against stress, a known trigger for asthma exacerbations.

But this idyllic picture also holds complexities. The prevalence of wood-burning stoves, while contributing to the charming ambiance, can also release particulate matter into the air, potentially irritating airways and exacerbating asthma symptoms. The age of the housing stock, with its potential for allergens, is another factor to consider.

**Places to Live: Breathing Easy or Holding Your Breath?**

The housing landscape in Dewart is a mix of charming older homes and newer construction. Many homes boast generous yards, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, the condition of these homes is a key factor in our Asthma Score. Older homes, as mentioned, can harbor allergens. Regular maintenance, including mold remediation and pest control, is crucial for minimizing these risks.

The presence of nearby industrial activity, even if limited, is another consideration. While Dewart is largely a residential community, any potential for air pollution from nearby sources needs to be monitored. This includes the possibility of emissions from agricultural operations, a common concern in rural areas.

**Outdoor Recreation: A Breath of Fresh Air or a Trigger?**

Dewart's proximity to the Susquehanna River and surrounding natural beauty offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature are integral to the community's lifestyle. This access to green spaces is a significant positive factor in our Asthma Score. Exposure to nature can have a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.

However, the outdoor environment also presents potential challenges. Seasonal allergies, triggered by pollen from trees and grasses, can be a significant asthma trigger. The presence of mold and mildew in damp areas, like near the river, can also exacerbate symptoms.

**Local Wellness Programs: Taking a Deep Breath Together**

The availability and accessibility of local wellness programs are critical components of our Asthma Score. Does Dewart have access to:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Are there readily available primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists and allergists, within a reasonable distance? Easy access to healthcare is vital for early diagnosis, effective asthma management, and preventative care.
* **Asthma Education Programs:** Are there educational resources available to teach residents about asthma triggers, proper medication use, and emergency protocols?
* **Support Groups:** Are there support groups where individuals with asthma and their families can connect, share experiences, and learn coping strategies?
* **Community Health Initiatives:** Are there any community-wide initiatives focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation programs or programs that encourage physical activity?

The absence of these programs would negatively impact the Asthma Score. Conversely, a robust network of support and resources would significantly improve it.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Our "Asthma Score" for Dewart, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17730) is not a simple number. It's a holistic assessment that considers the interplay of various factors.

**Positive Factors:**

* **Strong sense of community:** This can reduce stress and promote social support.
* **Access to outdoor recreation:** Proximity to nature can improve overall well-being.
* **Potential for a slower pace of life:** This can reduce stress levels.

**Negative Factors:**

* **Older housing stock:** Potential for allergens like mold and dust mites.
* **Older demographic:** Increased vulnerability to respiratory illnesses.
* **Modest income levels:** Potential for limited access to healthcare.
* **Wood-burning stoves:** Potential for air pollution.
* **Seasonal allergies:** Trigger for asthma exacerbations.
* **Limited availability of specialized medical care:** Potential for delayed diagnosis and treatment.
* **Lack of specific asthma education programs:** Leads to a lack of awareness.

**Recommendations for Improvement: Breathing Easier in Dewart**

Improving the Asthma Score in Dewart requires a multi-pronged approach:

* **Community Education:** Launching a community-wide education campaign to raise awareness about asthma triggers, management strategies, and the importance of seeking medical care.
* **Home Inspection and Remediation:** Encouraging home inspections to identify and address potential asthma triggers, such as mold, dust mites, and pests. Providing financial assistance or resources for remediation, especially for low-income residents.
* **Healthcare Access:** Facilitating access to primary care physicians, specialists, and asthma educators. This could involve partnerships with nearby hospitals or clinics to offer outreach programs or mobile clinics.
* **Environmental Monitoring:** Monitoring air quality, especially during peak allergy seasons and periods of increased wood-burning, to identify potential pollution sources and inform public health advisories.
* **Wellness Programs:** Establishing local wellness programs, such as smoking cessation programs, exercise classes, and support groups for individuals with asthma and their families.
* **Advocacy:** Advocating for policies that promote environmental health, such as stricter regulations on air pollution and incentives for energy-efficient home improvements.
* **Partnering with local organizations:** Partnering with the local government, schools, and community organizations to implement these recommendations.

**The Future of Dewart's Breath**

The future of community health in Dewart, and the improvement of its Asthma Score, depends on a collaborative effort. It requires a commitment from residents, healthcare providers, community leaders, and local organizations to work together to create a healthier environment. It's about empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their asthma effectively. It's about fostering a community that values clean air, healthy lifestyles, and access to quality healthcare.

By addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the strengths of this unique community, Dewart can breathe a collective sigh of relief, ensuring that the fresh air and the vibrant spirit of 17730 continue to thrive for generations to come. The journey towards a better Asthma Score is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It's a continuous process of learning, adapting, and working together to create a community where everyone can breathe easy.