18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 18818 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.47 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 18818 would have to travel an average of 22.69 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Barnes-Kasson County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 230 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of Friendsville: Assessing Community Health in 18818

The Susquehanna River whispers secrets through Friendsville, Pennsylvania, a town etched into the rolling hills of Bradford County. Here, where the air hums with the promise of clean living and the scent of pine needles, the health of the community is a vital, living thing. It's a tapestry woven with threads of history, geography, and the vibrant lives of its residents. To understand the "Asthma Score" of 18818 – a proxy for overall community health, reflecting factors impacting respiratory health and beyond – we need to delve into the heart of Friendsville, exploring its demographics, its lifestyle, and the resources available to its people.

**The Lay of the Land: A Breath of Fresh Air and Hidden Challenges**

Friendsville, nestled in the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania, offers a visual feast. The river, a shimmering ribbon, snakes through the valley, flanked by verdant slopes that climb towards the sky. This landscape, a siren song for outdoor enthusiasts, is a cornerstone of the community’s identity. The air, often crisp and clean, is a blessing for many. But the very geography that draws people here also presents challenges.

The town's relative isolation, a feature that fosters a strong sense of community, can also limit access to specialized medical care. The nearest major hospitals are a drive away, and while the local clinic, the Friendsville Community Health Center, is a vital resource, it can be stretched thin. This geographical reality is a crucial factor in assessing the "Asthma Score."

**Demographics: Understanding the People**

The people of Friendsville are the lifeblood of the community. The population, primarily Caucasian, skews towards an older demographic, with a significant percentage of retirees. This aging population presents unique health considerations. Chronic conditions, including asthma, are more prevalent in older adults, and access to timely care becomes even more critical.

The economic landscape is diverse. While some residents are employed in local agriculture and small businesses, others commute to nearby towns for work. This economic diversity impacts access to healthcare, insurance coverage, and the ability to afford healthy food and preventative care. These factors, intertwined with the demographic profile, paint a complex picture of community health.

**Places to Live: Homes, Neighborhoods, and the Air We Breathe**

The architecture of Friendsville is a charming blend of eras. Victorian homes with gingerbread trim stand alongside sturdy farmhouses, reflecting the town's history. The neighborhoods, though not formally delineated by strict boundaries, possess distinct personalities.

Imagine a sun-drenched morning in the Riverview neighborhood. Children, their laughter echoing through the quiet streets, chase after a rogue soccer ball. The air, clean and crisp, carries the scent of freshly cut grass. This idyllic scene, however, can be disrupted by the unseen. Older homes, while charming, may harbor mold or dust mites, common asthma triggers. The presence of pets, while enriching lives, can also exacerbate allergies.

Further up the hill, in the Oakwood section, the air is often cooler, filtered by the dense canopy of trees. This natural air filtration system is a boon for respiratory health. However, the proximity to the woods can also mean exposure to pollen and other allergens, especially during the spring and fall.

The quality of housing itself is a critical factor. Well-maintained homes with proper ventilation and insulation contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Conversely, homes with poor ventilation, moisture issues, or exposure to secondhand smoke can significantly worsen asthma symptoms. The "Asthma Score" is, in part, a reflection of the quality of housing in 18818.

**The Vibe of Friendsville: Community Spirit and Social Determinants of Health**

The "neighborhood vibe" of Friendsville is a powerful force. It's a community that values connection, support, and mutual respect. This strong social fabric is a significant asset when it comes to community health. Neighbors look out for each other, offering assistance and support to those in need. This sense of belonging can buffer against the stresses of life, which can, in turn, negatively impact health.

However, the social determinants of health – factors like access to education, employment, and transportation – also play a role. Limited public transportation options can make it difficult for residents to access medical appointments or healthy food. Food deserts, areas with limited access to fresh, affordable produce, can contribute to poor nutrition and exacerbate health issues.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep and Finding Joy**

Friendsville is a haven for outdoor recreation. The Susquehanna River beckons with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. These activities are not just recreational; they are essential for physical and mental well-being.

Picture a family, their faces flushed with exertion, returning from a hike on the Loyalsock Trail. The children, their lungs expanding with each breath, are invigorated by the fresh air. This active lifestyle, a hallmark of Friendsville, is a powerful antidote to sedentary living and its associated health risks.

However, outdoor activities also present potential challenges. Pollen counts can be high during certain seasons, triggering asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals. Exposure to air pollution from nearby roadways can also exacerbate respiratory issues. The balance between the benefits and risks of outdoor recreation is a key consideration in assessing the "Asthma Score."

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

The Friendsville Community Health Center is the cornerstone of local wellness initiatives. They offer a range of services, including asthma management programs, preventative care, and health education. These programs are crucial in empowering residents to take control of their health.

Imagine a group of individuals, gathered at the community center, participating in a breathing exercise workshop. A certified respiratory therapist guides them through techniques to manage their asthma symptoms. This proactive approach to health is a testament to the community's commitment to well-being.

The Friendsville Library also plays a vital role, offering health-related resources and educational programs. Local organizations, such as the Friends of the River, promote environmental awareness and advocate for clean air and water. These collaborative efforts are essential in building a healthier future for Friendsville.

**The "Asthma Score" – A Holistic Assessment**

The "Asthma Score" for 18818 is not a single number. It's a complex assessment, reflecting the interplay of various factors. It considers the demographics, the geography, the quality of housing, the availability of healthcare, the access to healthy food, the opportunities for outdoor recreation, and the strength of the community itself.

The score is not just about asthma; it's a barometer of overall community health. A high score, indicating a healthier community, would reflect:

* A proactive healthcare system with readily available asthma management programs.
* Well-maintained housing with good ventilation and minimal exposure to allergens.
* Access to healthy food options and opportunities for physical activity.
* A strong sense of community support and social connectedness.
* Clean air and water, with efforts to minimize environmental pollutants.

A lower score, conversely, would highlight areas for improvement:

* Limited access to specialized medical care.
* Housing with potential asthma triggers, such as mold or dust mites.
* Food deserts and limited access to healthy food options.
* Social isolation and lack of community support.
* Environmental factors that exacerbate respiratory issues.

**Looking Ahead: Breathing Easier in Friendsville**

Friendsville, with its natural beauty and strong community spirit, has the potential to be a model for healthy living. By focusing on the factors that contribute to the "Asthma Score," the community can work together to create a healthier future for all its residents.

This means:

* Strengthening the local healthcare system and expanding access to specialized care.
* Promoting healthy housing initiatives and educating residents about asthma triggers.
* Supporting local food initiatives and increasing access to fresh, affordable produce.
* Fostering community connections and addressing social determinants of health.
* Protecting the environment and advocating for clean air and water.

The breath of Friendsville is a precious gift. By understanding the factors that impact community health, the residents of 18818 can work together to ensure that everyone can breathe easy, live fully, and enjoy the beauty and vitality of their town for generations to come. The journey to a higher "Asthma Score" is a journey towards a healthier, more vibrant Friendsville.