The People Score for the Asthma Score in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.09 percent of the residents in 18221 has some form of health insurance. 47.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.05 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 18221 would have to travel an average of 4.90 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,603 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania
Asthma Score | 92 |
---|---|
People Score | 85 |
Provider Score | 66 |
Hospital Score | 71 |
Travel Score | 44 |
18221 | Drifton | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 46.31 | 46.31 | 58.71 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 16.75 | 16.75 | 14.80 |
Medicare | 23.15 | 23.15 | 19.53 |
Medicaid | 31.03 | 31.03 | 19.77 |
TRICARE | 0.00 | 0.00 | 1.43 |
VA | 57.39 | 57.39 | 51.92 |
Percent Insured in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
18221 | Drifton | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 95.41 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 89.33 | 89.33 | 92.43 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.56 |
## The Breath of Drifton: Assessing Community Health in 18221
The air in Drifton, Pennsylvania, a small corner tucked into the coal country of Luzerne County, carries a whisper of history. It smells of pine and damp earth, a scent laced with the ghosts of anthracite miners and the echoes of a bygone era. But for residents, especially those managing asthma, the quality of that air, the very breath they take, is a daily consideration. This isn’t just about individual health; it's a reflection of the community's well-being, a complex tapestry woven with demographics, lifestyle choices, and the availability of resources. This is an exploration of the "Asthma Score" of Drifton, a snapshot of its community health in the ZIP code 18221.
The first thing that hits you driving into Drifton is the landscape. Rolling hills, densely wooded, begin to open up, revealing pockets of homes nestled amongst the trees. The architecture is a mix: sturdy, well-maintained older homes, some bearing the hallmarks of generations past, stand alongside newer, more modern builds. This visual diversity hints at the demographic mix of the community. The 2020 census data, while a snapshot, gives us a starting point. 18221 is predominantly white, with a smaller but growing Hispanic/Latino population. The median age skews older, reflecting a trend of families staying put and a potential lack of younger families moving in. This aging population presents unique challenges, particularly when considering chronic conditions like asthma, which can be exacerbated by age and environmental factors.
The economic landscape of Drifton is another crucial piece of the puzzle. Historically reliant on coal mining, the area has faced economic hardship with the industry's decline. While some residents commute to nearby towns for work, a significant portion likely relies on local businesses and services. This economic reality impacts community health in numerous ways. Limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing can all contribute to poorer health outcomes, including a higher incidence of asthma.
Imagine Mrs. Petrocelli, a lifelong resident, sitting on her porch, watching the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across her meticulously kept lawn. She remembers a time when the air was thick with coal dust, a constant reminder of the industry that sustained the community. Now, the air is cleaner, but the legacy of those years lingers. She's a grandmother, and her grandson, like many children in the area, struggles with asthma. She worries about the triggers: the pollen in the spring, the wood smoke from neighbors' fireplaces in the fall, and the occasional whiff of something industrial carried on the wind. Her concern underscores the everyday reality of living with asthma in Drifton.
The "Asthma Score" of 18221 isn't just about the number of asthma cases; it's about the quality of life for those living with the condition. It's about access to timely and affordable healthcare, including regular check-ups, medication, and specialized care. Does Drifton have enough primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and allergists to meet the community's needs? Are there affordable pharmacies readily accessible? These are crucial questions. The presence of a local hospital or clinic, even if located outside the immediate ZIP code, significantly impacts the community's ability to manage chronic conditions.
Beyond medical care, the availability of healthy food options plays a vital role. Food deserts, areas with limited access to fresh, affordable produce, can exacerbate health problems, including asthma. Does Drifton have a local farmers' market? Are there grocery stores that prioritize stocking healthy choices? The lack of these resources can force residents to rely on less nutritious, processed foods, which can contribute to inflammation and worsen asthma symptoms.
Consider the community's infrastructure. Are sidewalks well-maintained? Are there safe places for children to play outdoors? The ability to engage in physical activity is crucial for overall health and can help manage asthma. A lack of safe outdoor spaces can limit children's ability to exercise and can contribute to sedentary lifestyles.
The neighborhood vibe in Drifton is a key factor. Is it a supportive community? Are neighbors connected and looking out for each other? A strong sense of community can provide a vital support network for individuals managing chronic illnesses. Imagine a local community center offering educational programs about asthma management, support groups for parents of children with asthma, and exercise classes tailored to those with respiratory conditions. This kind of community-based support can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected.
Outdoor recreation is a significant aspect of life in 18221. The surrounding landscape offers numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the natural world. But access to these resources isn't always equal. Are there well-maintained trails accessible to all residents, regardless of their physical abilities? Are there programs that encourage outdoor activity and educate residents about the benefits of spending time in nature?
Picture a family, the Millers, preparing for a weekend hike in the nearby state park. Their son, diagnosed with asthma, is excited but also a little apprehensive. His parents have learned to manage his condition, ensuring he has his medication and inhaler readily available. They've also connected with a local hiking group that offers guided walks, providing a safe and supportive environment for children with asthma to enjoy the outdoors. This proactive approach to outdoor recreation highlights the importance of community support and education.
The "Asthma Score" is also influenced by environmental factors. Is air quality monitored regularly? Are there efforts to reduce pollution from local sources, such as industrial facilities or vehicle emissions? The presence of environmental hazards, such as mold or allergens in homes, can significantly trigger asthma symptoms. The availability of resources to address these issues, such as home inspection programs or financial assistance for mold remediation, is critical.
Consider the story of Mr. Chen, a recent transplant to Drifton. He moved from a bustling city, seeking a quieter life and a closer connection to nature. He soon realized that his asthma was flaring up more frequently. He learned that his new home had a mold problem and that the pollen count in the area was particularly high during certain seasons. He connected with a local environmental health organization that helped him identify and address the issues, allowing him to breathe easier and enjoy his new home.
The availability of local wellness programs is another crucial element. Does Drifton offer programs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation classes, weight management programs, and stress reduction workshops? These programs can empower residents to take control of their health and manage their asthma symptoms more effectively.
Imagine a community health fair held in the town square. Local healthcare providers offer free screenings, educational materials are distributed, and children participate in fun activities. This kind of event not only raises awareness about asthma but also provides valuable resources and support to the community.
The "Asthma Score" of Drifton is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's health and well-being. It’s influenced by a complex interplay of factors: demographics, socioeconomic conditions, environmental factors, access to healthcare, lifestyle choices, and the strength of the community itself.
To improve the "Asthma Score" in 18221, a multi-pronged approach is needed. This includes:
* **Improving access to healthcare:** Ensuring that residents have access to affordable, quality medical care, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Promoting healthy lifestyles:** Encouraging healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation.
* **Addressing environmental factors:** Monitoring air quality, addressing environmental hazards in homes, and promoting sustainable practices.
* **Strengthening community support:** Fostering a strong sense of community, providing support networks for individuals with asthma, and offering educational programs.
* **Investing in infrastructure:** Improving sidewalks, creating safe outdoor spaces, and supporting local businesses that prioritize healthy food options.
The future of Drifton's community health depends on the collective efforts of its residents, local organizations, and healthcare providers. By working together, they can create a healthier, more vibrant community where everyone can breathe easier. The "Asthma Score" is not just a measure of disease; it's a measure of the community's commitment to the well-being of its residents. It's a call to action, a reminder that every breath counts, and that the health of the community is a shared responsibility. It's a challenge to build a Drifton where the air is clean, the community is supportive, and everyone can live a full and healthy life, free from the constraints of asthma.
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