The People Score for the Asthma Score in 18824, Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.93 percent of the residents in 18824 has some form of health insurance. 45.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.25 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 18824 would have to travel an average of 20.44 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Barnes-Kasson County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 134 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18824, Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18824, Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania
Asthma Score | 49 |
---|---|
People Score | 61 |
Provider Score | 55 |
Hospital Score | 43 |
Travel Score | 32 |
18824 | Hop Bottom | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 56.40 | 56.40 | 58.71 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 15.97 | 15.97 | 14.80 |
Medicare | 31.78 | 31.78 | 19.53 |
Medicaid | 21.19 | 21.19 | 19.77 |
TRICARE | 1.14 | 1.14 | 1.43 |
VA | 54.28 | 54.28 | 51.92 |
Percent Insured in 18824, Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
18824 | Hop Bottom | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 98.65 | 98.65 | 95.41 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 92.74 | 92.74 | 92.43 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.56 |
## Breathe Easy, Hop Bottom: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 18824
The Susquehanna River whispers secrets through the valleys surrounding Hop Bottom, Pennsylvania, a place where time seems to slow, and the air, for the most part, feels clean and crisp. But even in this seemingly idyllic pocket of the Endless Mountains, the shadow of asthma can fall. This isn’t just a medical issue; it’s a community health marker, a barometer of how well we’re all breathing together. This article dives deep into the asthma score within the 18824 ZIP code, exploring the factors that shape it and, more importantly, what the community is doing to improve it. We’re not just looking at numbers; we're looking at lives.
**The Scorecard: What Drives the Asthma Score in 18824?**
Let's be clear: there isn't a single, official "Asthma Score" assigned to a ZIP code. Instead, we'll be examining the interconnected elements that contribute to asthma prevalence and severity within 18824, painting a picture of the community's respiratory health.
**Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**
Hop Bottom, with its population hovering around 300, is a tight-knit community. The demographics are a crucial piece of the puzzle. Understanding the age distribution is paramount. The presence of young children, with their developing lungs, and the elderly, who are often more vulnerable to respiratory ailments, significantly impacts the asthma landscape.
Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered from years of gardening, sitting on her porch swing. Her grandchildren, full of boundless energy, tumble in the yard, their laughter echoing through the quiet streets. The air they breathe, the environment they inhabit, directly impacts their respiratory health. The prevalence of young families, like the Millers, who recently moved into a renovated farmhouse on a quiet lane, also influences the score. Their children, exposed to potential allergens and irritants, add to the complexity.
The socioeconomic makeup of the community plays a critical role. Access to quality healthcare, including regular checkups and specialized asthma management, can vary. Factors like insurance coverage and transportation to medical facilities in neighboring towns like Montrose or Scranton can impact access to care.
**Places to Live: Where We Call Home**
The type and condition of housing within 18824 are significant factors. Older homes, like the charming Victorian houses that line Main Street, can harbor hidden asthma triggers. Mold, dust mites, and pests can thrive in older structures, exacerbating respiratory problems.
Picture the O’Connells, a young couple who just purchased a fixer-upper. They’re excited about the possibilities, but they’re also aware of the potential challenges. Renovations can kick up dust and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials, potentially triggering asthma symptoms.
Conversely, newer homes, like the developments that are slowly emerging on the outskirts of town, might offer better insulation and air quality. However, the proximity to potential sources of pollution, such as agricultural operations or nearby roadways, can still pose a risk.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community and Connection**
The social fabric of Hop Bottom is a powerful influence. A strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other, can lead to better health outcomes. The annual Hop Bottom Fair, a beloved tradition, brings everyone together. This close-knit environment can facilitate information sharing and support networks, crucial for managing chronic conditions like asthma.
Imagine the friendly chatter at the local general store, where residents exchange news and offer support. This informal network can be a lifeline for families struggling with asthma, connecting them with resources and providing emotional support. Conversely, a lack of social cohesion, where individuals feel isolated, can worsen health outcomes.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty, Navigating the Challenges**
Hop Bottom is blessed with natural beauty. The Susquehanna River offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The surrounding hills and forests provide ample space for hiking and exploring. These outdoor activities can be beneficial for overall health, but they also present challenges for individuals with asthma.
Consider the annual Hop Bottom Community Day hike. While the fresh air and exercise are beneficial, the presence of pollen, mold spores, and other airborne irritants can trigger asthma symptoms. The availability of well-maintained trails and accessible outdoor spaces is crucial.
**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Breathable Future**
The community's commitment to health and wellness is a vital component of the asthma score. While specific, formal asthma-focused programs might be limited due to the town's size, the availability of general health resources can indirectly impact respiratory health.
The local library, for instance, might offer health-related workshops or access to online resources about asthma management. The school system, even with its limited resources, can play a role in educating children and their families about asthma triggers and preventative measures.
**Specifics: Peeling Back the Layers**
To truly understand the asthma score in 18824, we need to dig deeper. Here are some specific areas to explore:
* **Healthcare Access:** What is the proximity to primary care physicians and specialists? Are there telehealth options available? Does the community have access to affordable medications and inhalers?
* **Environmental Factors:** Are there any specific pollution sources in the area, such as agricultural practices, industrial facilities, or heavy traffic? What is the quality of the local air?
* **Housing Conditions:** What percentage of homes are older? Are there any initiatives to help residents address mold, pests, or other indoor air quality issues?
* **Education and Awareness:** Are there any community-based programs to educate residents about asthma triggers, management strategies, and emergency protocols?
* **Community Involvement:** How engaged are residents in advocating for better health resources and environmental protections?
**Vignette: The River's Whisper**
Imagine a young boy, Liam, who loves to fish with his grandfather on the Susquehanna. Liam has asthma, and his parents are constantly vigilant. On a humid summer day, the pollen count is high. Liam's grandfather, knowing the signs, keeps a close eye on him. They have a plan: Liam's inhaler is always within reach, and they know the nearest emergency room. They've learned to navigate the challenges, balancing the joy of the river with the realities of asthma. This scene encapsulates the daily balancing act faced by many families in Hop Bottom.
**Vignette: The Schoolhouse Solution**
The local school is a hub of community life. The school nurse, Mrs. Davis, is a familiar face to many families. She works tirelessly to educate students and staff about asthma. She organizes workshops on recognizing asthma symptoms and administering medication. She advocates for improved air quality in the classrooms. Her efforts, though often unseen, contribute significantly to the community's overall respiratory health.
**The Path Forward: Breathing Easier Together**
Improving the asthma score in 18824 is a collective effort. It requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses the various factors contributing to respiratory health.
* **Increased Healthcare Access:** Expanding access to primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable medications is paramount.
* **Environmental Awareness:** Promoting awareness of environmental triggers, such as pollen, mold, and air pollution, is crucial.
* **Community Education:** Providing education about asthma management, including recognizing symptoms, using inhalers, and developing action plans, is essential.
* **Healthy Housing Initiatives:** Supporting programs that help residents address indoor air quality issues, such as mold remediation and pest control, is vital.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and residents is key to creating a healthier environment.
**The Final Breath: A Community's Commitment**
Hop Bottom, with its inherent beauty and strong sense of community, has the potential to create a healthier environment for all its residents. By understanding the factors that influence the asthma score, and by working together to address the challenges, the community can breathe easier, fostering a future where everyone can enjoy the clean air and the simple pleasures of life in the Endless Mountains. The journey to a healthier Hop Bottom is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires dedication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving the quality of life for everyone, one breath at a time.
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