17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 60.10 percent of the residents in 17864 has some form of health insurance. 27.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.35 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17864 would have to travel an average of 23.85 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Geisinger Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,789 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score: Breathing Easy (or Not) in Port Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17864)

The Susquehanna River, a shimmering silver ribbon, snakes its way past Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania, a small town nestled in the heart of Snyder County. Rolling farmland, dotted with Amish homesteads, defines the landscape. The air, at times thick with the scent of freshly turned earth and the promise of rain, feels clean, inviting. But for some residents of ZIP code 17864, the simple act of breathing isn't always so easy. This is a deep dive into the community health landscape of Port Trevorton, with a particular focus on asthma, a chronic respiratory disease that can be significantly impacted by environmental factors and access to care. We'll explore the demographics, the neighborhood vibe, the opportunities for a healthy lifestyle, and the challenges that residents face, painting a picture of a community striving for better respiratory health.

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

Port Trevorton is a tapestry woven with threads of tradition and a quiet resilience. The population, hovering around 1,000 residents, reflects a strong sense of community. The median age skews older, with a significant portion of the population being over 65. This demographic profile is important because age can be a factor in asthma prevalence and severity. Younger children and the elderly are often more vulnerable to environmental triggers.

The town is predominantly white, with a small but growing Hispanic/Latino population. The economic landscape is largely blue-collar, with many residents employed in agriculture, manufacturing, and local businesses. This economic profile can influence health outcomes; lower incomes often correlate with limited access to healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing, all of which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

The physical environment of Port Trevorton is a double-edged sword. The rural setting offers the potential for clean air and outdoor recreation, a huge benefit for respiratory health. However, the agricultural practices prevalent in the area, while sustaining the community, also introduce potential asthma triggers. Pollen from crops, pesticide use, and dust from harvesting can all contribute to respiratory irritation. Furthermore, the presence of wood-burning stoves for heating, common in older homes, can release particulate matter into the air, further impacting air quality.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Meets the Air We Breathe**

Imagine a crisp autumn morning. The sun casts long shadows across the fields as a farmer guides his tractor, the air thick with the smell of freshly cut hay. This is the essence of Port Trevorton – a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons. The town's main artery, Route 147, is lined with a mix of well-maintained homes, older farmhouses, and a few local businesses.

The community's heart beats at the Port Trevorton Fire Company, a gathering place for social events and a symbol of the town's close-knit spirit. The local churches play a vital role, offering support networks and a sense of belonging. This strong sense of community can be a powerful asset in addressing health challenges. Neighbors look out for each other, and word-of-mouth can be a potent tool for disseminating health information and encouraging healthy behaviors.

However, the rural setting can also present challenges. Access to specialized medical care, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, might require a drive to larger towns like Selinsgrove or Sunbury. This can be a barrier for residents with limited transportation options or those who struggle with managing their asthma.

**Places to Live: Homes and the Air Inside**

The type of housing in Port Trevorton is varied. Older homes, often with character and charm, are common. These homes, however, can also harbor potential asthma triggers. Dust mites thrive in older mattresses and carpets. Mold can flourish in damp basements. And the use of older heating systems, as mentioned before, can contribute to indoor air pollution.

Newer homes, while potentially offering better insulation and air filtration, are not immune to asthma triggers. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from new furniture, paint, and cleaning products can irritate the airways. Pet dander, even in homes without pets, can be carried on clothing and trigger allergic reactions.

The quality of housing is a critical factor in asthma management. Ensuring homes are free from mold, pests, and other allergens is essential. Education and resources for homeowners on how to maintain a healthy indoor environment are crucial.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Port Trevorton: Opportunities and Obstacles**

The potential for a healthy lifestyle in Port Trevorton is significant. The abundance of outdoor space provides ample opportunities for physical activity, a key component of asthma management. Hiking trails, fishing spots along the Susquehanna, and the open fields offer a chance to connect with nature and improve cardiovascular health.

However, the availability of these resources doesn't automatically translate to a healthy lifestyle for everyone. Sedentary habits, a lack of access to healthy food options, and limited awareness of asthma management strategies can pose significant obstacles.

The local grocery store, while offering basic necessities, may have limited options for fresh produce and healthy prepared meals. This can be a challenge for residents with busy schedules or limited cooking skills. The availability of farmers markets and community gardens could help address this gap, providing access to fresh, local, and affordable food.

**Local Wellness Programs: Filling the Gaps**

While Port Trevorton may not have a plethora of large-scale wellness programs, the community's inherent strength lies in its ability to mobilize resources and support each other. The local health clinic, if one exists, could play a crucial role in asthma management. Providing asthma education, offering free or low-cost inhalers, and connecting residents with specialists are essential services.

The schools, too, can be vital partners. Implementing asthma-friendly school policies, training staff on asthma management, and educating students about triggers and treatment are crucial steps.

Community organizations, such as the fire company or local churches, could host workshops on asthma management, healthy cooking, and exercise. Partnering with local healthcare providers to provide these resources would be a valuable asset.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easier in the Great Outdoors**

The Susquehanna River offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor recreation. Fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the views are popular pastimes. The surrounding farmland provides opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.

However, the outdoor environment can also present challenges for individuals with asthma. Pollen counts can be high during certain seasons, and air quality can be affected by agricultural practices and seasonal weather patterns.

Promoting awareness of pollen counts and air quality forecasts is crucial. Encouraging residents to take precautions, such as using their inhalers before engaging in outdoor activities or avoiding strenuous activities during peak pollen times, can help mitigate the risks.

**Asthma Score: A Community in Need of Support**

Assessing the asthma score for Port Trevorton (ZIP code 17864) reveals a complex picture. The community possesses inherent strengths – a strong sense of community, access to outdoor recreation, and a willingness to support each other. However, several factors contribute to potential challenges for residents with asthma.

The aging population, the rural setting with its agricultural practices, the potential for substandard housing, and the limited access to specialized healthcare all contribute to a higher risk of asthma exacerbations. The lack of readily available healthy food options and the need for increased awareness of asthma management strategies further complicate the situation.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Asthma Education:** Implement community-wide asthma education programs, focusing on trigger identification, medication management, and emergency preparedness.
* **Improve Housing Quality:** Provide resources and incentives for homeowners to address mold, pests, and other indoor allergens.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage physical activity through organized events and access to outdoor recreation. Support the development of farmers markets and community gardens to increase access to fresh, healthy food.
* **Strengthen Healthcare Access:** Advocate for increased access to specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists and allergists. Support the local health clinic in providing asthma-specific services.
* **Foster Community Partnerships:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local businesses to create a comprehensive approach to asthma management.
* **Monitor Air Quality:** Partner with local and state agencies to monitor air quality and provide residents with timely information about pollen counts and air pollution levels.

By addressing these challenges and leveraging the community's strengths, Port Trevorton can strive to create a healthier environment for all its residents, ensuring that everyone can breathe easy and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings. The journey towards improved respiratory health requires a concerted effort, but the tight-knit community of Port Trevorton is well-positioned to take on the challenge, one breath at a time.