18651, Plymouth, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 18651, Plymouth, Pennsylvania is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.35 percent of the residents in 18651 has some form of health insurance. 50.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.36 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 18651 would have to travel an average of 4.27 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,085 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18651, Plymouth, Pennsylvania.

## Plymouth, PA: Breathing Easy & Building Resilience – An Asthma Score Snapshot (ZIP Code 18651)

The Susquehanna River, a ribbon of silver, snakes its way past Plymouth, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18651), a town steeped in anthracite coal history. The echoes of industry still resonate in the architecture, the tight-knit community, and the very air that residents breathe. This isn't just a historical backdrop; it's the canvas upon which we paint a picture of community health, specifically focusing on the prevalence of asthma and the factors that influence it. This is our Asthma Score snapshot.

**The Breath of the Community: Understanding the Landscape**

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, casts a long shadow. In 18651, like many communities, it's a complex interplay of environmental factors, socio-economic realities, and access to quality healthcare. We're not just talking about numbers; we're talking about the lives of individuals, families, and the collective health of Plymouth.

**Demographics: A Tapestry of Resilience**

Plymouth's demographic makeup is a crucial starting point. The town boasts a population of roughly 6,000, a mosaic of generations, with a significant presence of families and a strong sense of community pride. The median age leans towards the older side, reflecting a history of residents staying put, building lives, and weathering storms together. This age distribution is important, as asthma can manifest at any age, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to its complications.

The economic landscape paints another layer. Historically reliant on the coal industry, Plymouth has faced economic challenges. This can translate to limited access to resources, impacting housing quality, healthcare access, and the ability to prioritize preventative health measures. Understanding the socio-economic realities is vital to understanding the asthma burden.

**Places to Live: Where Home is More Than Just Walls**

The type of housing in Plymouth is diverse. From the charming, well-maintained older homes with their character-filled porches to more modern dwellings, the housing stock reflects the town's evolution. However, the age of some of the older housing stock presents a potential challenge. Older homes can harbor allergens like mold, dust mites, and pests – all potent asthma triggers.

Imagine Mrs. Petrocelli, a lifelong resident, tending to her vibrant flower boxes on her porch. Her home, a lovingly restored Victorian, is a testament to her dedication. But beneath the beauty, the damp basement, a common feature in older homes, could be a breeding ground for mold, a silent threat to her respiratory health.

Consider the families living in the more affordable, sometimes less well-maintained, rental properties. Overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, and a lack of resources for addressing home maintenance issues can exacerbate asthma symptoms. These are the unseen realities that contribute to the community's overall asthma score.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Place and Belonging**

Plymouth's neighborhood vibe is palpable. It's a town where neighbors know each other, where community events are well-attended, and where a sense of belonging is strong. This social cohesion is a powerful asset. A strong community can foster support networks, encourage healthy behaviors, and promote access to information and resources.

Think of the annual Plymouth Town Fair, a vibrant celebration that brings the entire community together. Imagine the laughter, the music, the food – and the potential for exposure to allergens like pollen and smoke from cooking. This is where the community's resilience is tested and where opportunities for education and awareness can be amplified.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty, Navigating the Challenges**

The natural beauty surrounding Plymouth offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Susquehanna River provides a stunning backdrop for kayaking, fishing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The nearby trails offer opportunities for hiking and biking.

Picture young Liam, a budding athlete, eager to join the local soccer team. The crisp autumn air, usually a source of joy, can trigger his asthma. The presence of pollen and other allergens can be a barrier to his participation and enjoyment of outdoor activities.

The challenge lies in balancing the benefits of outdoor recreation with the potential asthma triggers. This necessitates proactive strategies, such as understanding pollen counts, using appropriate medication, and having a plan in place for managing asthma symptoms.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation of Health**

Plymouth's community health is not solely defined by its challenges. There are local wellness programs and initiatives that work to improve the quality of life for residents.

Consider the efforts of the local YMCA, offering fitness classes and health education programs. These programs can be instrumental in promoting healthy lifestyles, managing asthma symptoms, and educating residents about asthma triggers.

Imagine the local clinic hosting free asthma screening days, providing education on proper inhaler technique, and connecting patients with specialists. These are the building blocks of a healthier community.

**The Environmental Factors: A Deep Breath of Reality**

The environment plays a crucial role in asthma prevalence. Air quality, a major factor, can be impacted by a variety of sources, including industrial emissions, traffic, and seasonal allergens.

Consider the impact of seasonal changes. Spring brings pollen, a common asthma trigger. Autumn brings the potential for mold spores from decaying leaves. Winter brings the cold, dry air that can irritate airways. These seasonal variations require residents to be vigilant in managing their asthma symptoms.

**The Healthcare Landscape: Access and Affordability**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. This includes access to primary care physicians, specialists, and asthma educators. Affordability is another critical factor. The cost of medications, doctor's visits, and specialized treatments can be a significant burden for families, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Picture a single mother struggling to afford her child's asthma medication. The financial strain can lead to missed doses, uncontrolled symptoms, and increased hospital visits. This is where community support and access to affordable healthcare become essential.

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

The Asthma Score for Plymouth, PA (18651) is not a single number. It's a complex assessment of the community's strengths and weaknesses in relation to asthma prevalence and management. It's a call to action, a reminder that we can, and must, work together to improve the health of our community.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Asthma Education:** Implement comprehensive asthma education programs in schools, community centers, and healthcare settings.
* **Promote Home Environmental Control:** Provide resources and support for residents to address asthma triggers in their homes, such as mold remediation and pest control.
* **Improve Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased access to affordable healthcare, including asthma specialists and medications.
* **Support Outdoor Recreation with Awareness:** Promote safe outdoor recreation by providing information on pollen counts, air quality, and asthma management strategies.
* **Strengthen Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and local government to address the multifaceted challenges of asthma.
* **Invest in Air Quality Monitoring:** Implement a system for monitoring air quality and informing residents of potential asthma triggers.

**Vignette: A Future of Breath**

Imagine a future Plymouth where Liam, the young athlete, can run and play without fear. Where Mrs. Petrocelli, tending to her flowers, can breathe easy in her beautifully restored home. Where the community, united in its commitment to health, supports each other, educates each other, and builds a healthier, more resilient future for all.

This is the vision that fuels the work to improve the Asthma Score in Plymouth, PA (18651). It’s a journey, not a destination. It requires constant vigilance, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the well-being of every resident. The breath of the community depends on it.