19143, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 19143, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 1 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.08 percent of the residents in 19143 has some form of health insurance. 52.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.87 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 19143 would have to travel an average of 1.24 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Philadelphia Va Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 94,199 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 19143, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## The Breath of 19143: A Pulse on Community Health

The air hums in 19143. It’s a vibrant thrum, a mix of car horns, children’s laughter echoing from brick stoops, and the sizzle of a late-afternoon cookout. This is South Philadelphia, a tapestry woven from generations, a place where the aroma of simmering tomato sauce mingles with the salty tang of the Delaware River breeze. But beneath the surface of this lively community, a different kind of breath hangs in the air – the breath of those struggling with asthma.

This isn't just a statistic; it's a story etched onto the faces of children playing hopscotch on Mifflin Street, on the weary shoulders of seniors gathering at the VFW hall, and in the hurried coughs of adults navigating the bustling sidewalks. In 19143, asthma isn't just a medical condition; it's a community health challenge, a marker of environmental realities, and a call to action.

**A Demographic Snapshot: The Heart of the Matter**

Before we delve into the specifics, let's understand the people who call 19143 home. This ZIP code, encompassing areas like Passyunk Square, East Passyunk, and Dickinson Square West, is a microcosm of Philadelphia's rich diversity. The median household income hovers around a figure that demands careful budgeting, a reality that often dictates choices about housing, healthcare, and access to resources. The population is a vibrant blend of ethnicities, with a strong Italian-American heritage deeply interwoven with the fabric of the neighborhood. But the demographic landscape is constantly shifting, with a growing presence of young professionals and families drawn to the area's charm and affordability.

This demographic mix presents both opportunities and challenges for community health. The strong sense of community, often fostered by generations living side-by-side, can be a powerful force for positive change. Neighbors look out for each other, share information, and support each other through difficult times. But the economic realities, the pressures of urban living, and the historical inequities that have shaped the neighborhood also contribute to the complex web of factors that impact health outcomes.

**The Asthma Score: Unpacking the Challenges**

Asthma prevalence in 19143, like many urban communities, is a complex equation. It’s not a single cause, but a constellation of contributing factors.

**Environmental Hazards:** The legacy of industry in South Philadelphia leaves its mark. Air quality, particularly during certain times of the year, can be a significant trigger. The proximity to major roadways and industrial areas contributes to elevated levels of particulate matter and other pollutants, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Imagine a child, excited to play in the park, but forced indoors by a sudden asthma flare-up triggered by the air.

**Housing Conditions:** The age of many homes in 19143 can be a double-edged sword. The historic architecture adds to the neighborhood's character, but older buildings can also harbor asthma triggers like mold, dust mites, and pests. Consider the family living in a row home with a leaky roof, struggling to afford repairs, and unknowingly exposing their children to these invisible threats.

**Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty and lack of access to resources are significant contributors. Families struggling to make ends meet may face difficult choices, such as delaying medical care or living in substandard housing. The stress of financial insecurity can also weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to asthma triggers. Picture a single parent working multiple jobs, juggling childcare, and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, all while trying to keep their child's asthma under control.

**Access to Healthcare:** While 19143 has access to healthcare facilities, including the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and various clinics, access isn't always straightforward. Transportation challenges, language barriers, and lack of health insurance can create obstacles to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing asthma management. Visualize a senior citizen, struggling with mobility, trying to navigate public transportation to reach a doctor's appointment.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Double-Edged Sword**

The "vibe" of 19143 is undeniable. It’s a place where neighbors know each other, where the aroma of fresh-baked bread wafts from corner bakeries, and where the sounds of live music spill out from local bars on weekend nights. This sense of community can be a powerful asset in promoting health and well-being.

However, the very things that make 19143 so vibrant can also contribute to asthma challenges. The density of the population, the close proximity of homes, and the bustling streets can amplify the impact of environmental triggers. The prevalence of smoking, both indoors and outdoors, can also exacerbate asthma symptoms. Consider the outdoor seating at a popular restaurant, where the aroma of delicious food is sometimes mixed with the smoke from cigarettes, potentially affecting those with sensitive airways.

**Places to Live: Navigating the Landscape**

The choice of where to live in 19143 is a personal one, but understanding the potential impact on health is crucial.

* **Proximity to Parks and Green Spaces:** Areas with access to parks like Dickinson Square Park and the proposed expansion of the South Philadelphia Sports Complex offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and fresh air. These spaces can provide a respite from the urban environment and promote physical activity, which can improve overall health and asthma management. Imagine a child running freely in the park, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the joy of movement.
* **Housing Conditions:** When choosing a home, it’s essential to consider the age and condition of the building. Look for signs of mold, leaks, and pest infestations. Regular maintenance and proper ventilation can significantly reduce asthma triggers. Picture a family taking pride in their well-maintained home, creating a safe and healthy environment for their children.
* **Traffic and Air Quality:** Areas near major roadways may have higher levels of air pollution. Consider the proximity to traffic when choosing a home, especially if you or a family member has asthma. Imagine a family carefully planning their route to school, avoiding busy streets to minimize exposure to pollutants.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easier**

Despite the challenges, 19143 offers opportunities for outdoor recreation that can improve health and well-being.

* **Parks and Green Spaces:** Dickinson Square Park and other local parks provide spaces for exercise, relaxation, and connection with nature. Encourage children to play outdoors, but be mindful of air quality and pollen counts.
* **Walking and Biking:** The neighborhood is relatively walkable and bike-friendly. Encourage walking or biking for errands and leisure activities.
* **Community Gardens:** Participating in community gardens can provide access to fresh produce and promote healthy eating habits.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Breath of Fresh Air**

The community is not standing still. Various organizations are working to address the asthma challenge in 19143.

* **Community Health Centers:** Local health centers provide asthma education, management, and access to healthcare services.
* **School-Based Programs:** Schools often implement asthma management programs, providing education and support to students and their families.
* **Non-profit Organizations:** Organizations dedicated to environmental justice and public health are working to improve air quality, address housing issues, and promote healthy lifestyles.

**A Call to Action: Breathing for the Future**

The "Asthma Score" in 19143 isn't just a number; it's a reflection of the community's health, its challenges, and its resilience. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-pronged approach, involving individuals, families, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

* **Individual Responsibility:** Educate yourself about asthma triggers, develop an asthma action plan, and follow your doctor's recommendations.
* **Family Support:** Create a healthy home environment, free from asthma triggers, and encourage healthy lifestyle choices.
* **Community Engagement:** Participate in local wellness programs, advocate for improved air quality, and support initiatives that promote community health.
* **Advocacy:** Contact your local representatives to advocate for policies that address environmental hazards, improve access to healthcare, and support community health initiatives.

The air in 19143 holds the potential for both challenge and hope. By understanding the complexities of the asthma challenge, by embracing the strengths of the community, and by working together, we can create a healthier future, where every breath is a breath of fresh air, a breath of life, a breath of possibility. It's a future where the children of 19143 can run, play, and breathe freely, their laughter echoing through the streets, a testament to a community that cares, a community that breathes together.