19147, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 19147, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.49 percent of the residents in 19147 has some form of health insurance. 23.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.82 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 19147 would have to travel an average of 0.61 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pennsylvania Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 91,179 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 19147, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## The Breaths of 19147: Scoring Community Health in South Philly

The air hums in 19147. Not just with the usual Philly symphony of car horns and distant sirens, but with something deeper, a pulse of life, a collective exhale. This South Philadelphia ZIP code, a tapestry woven with Italian Market heritage, vibrant murals, and the ever-present aroma of roasting coffee, holds a complex relationship with its own breath. And for many residents, that breath is a constant negotiation, a daily dance with the potential for wheezing, coughing, and the heavy weight of asthma.

This isn't just a statistic; it's the lived experience of families, the reality faced by children playing hopscotch on cobblestone streets, the worry etched on the faces of parents navigating school drop-offs and doctor's appointments. To understand the health of 19147, we need to understand the breath – its quality, its challenges, and the community's fight to ensure it's clean, clear, and life-giving for everyone.

**The Demographics: A Snapshot of the Neighborhood's Lungs**

19147 is a mosaic. A vibrant blend of long-time residents and newcomers, of families who’ve seen generations grow up on the same stoop and young professionals drawn to the neighborhood's energy. The population is diverse, reflecting the city's rich tapestry of cultures. Italian roots run deep, evident in the family-owned businesses that line the streets, the annual festivals that spill onto the sidewalks, and the enduring sense of community that binds people together. But alongside this heritage, you find a growing Latinx population, a testament to the city's ever-evolving story.

This demographic mix is crucial to understanding the asthma burden. While specific data fluctuates, asthma disproportionately affects certain populations. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and environmental exposures can significantly impact asthma prevalence. In 19147, where pockets of poverty exist alongside gentrifying areas, understanding these nuances is vital.

Imagine Maria, a single mother working two jobs to make ends meet. Her apartment, like many in the older buildings of the neighborhood, might have issues with mold or pests – known asthma triggers. She struggles to find affordable childcare and navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming. Then there's David, a young professional who just moved into a renovated rowhome. He's committed to a healthy lifestyle, but the air quality, especially during peak traffic hours, can be a concern.

These are just two threads in the complex weave of 19147's community health.

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

The "vibe" of 19147 is electric. It's a place where you can grab a perfectly brewed espresso, browse independent bookstores, and catch a live music performance all within a few blocks. The streets pulse with life, a constant flow of people, conversations, and the aroma of delicious food. This vibrancy is a major draw, attracting residents who crave a walkable, connected community.

But this very vibrancy can also be a double-edged sword when it comes to asthma. Increased traffic, a consequence of the neighborhood's popularity, contributes to air pollution. Older buildings, while charming, can harbor allergens like dust mites and mold. And the density of the population means that respiratory illnesses can spread quickly.

Consider the bustling Italian Market. The sights, sounds, and smells are intoxicating. But the exhaust from delivery trucks, the constant stream of people, and the potential for food allergens can create a challenging environment for those with asthma.

**Places to Live: Where the Air Breathes Differently**

The housing stock in 19147 is diverse, ranging from historic rowhomes to modern apartments. The condition of these homes plays a significant role in the asthma landscape. Older buildings, particularly those that haven't been well-maintained, can be breeding grounds for triggers.

Imagine a child named Leo, living in a charming but drafty rowhome. His bedroom window, perpetually open to the street, allows pollutants and allergens to seep in. His asthma flares up frequently, particularly during the colder months when the heating system kicks on, circulating dust and mold spores.

Then there’s Sarah, who lives in a newly renovated apartment building with air filtration systems and modern amenities. She might have a better chance of avoiding asthma triggers within her home, but her exposure to outdoor air pollution remains a concern.

The quality of housing, therefore, is a critical factor in understanding the asthma burden in 19147.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep or Holding Your Breath?**

19147 offers pockets of green space, providing much-needed respite from the urban hustle. The nearby parks, like Jefferson Square Park and Mario Lanza Park, offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. These green spaces are vital for community health, providing places for exercise, relaxation, and connection with nature.

But even these havens can present challenges for those with asthma. Pollen counts can be high during certain seasons, triggering allergic reactions. Air pollution can still be a concern, especially during peak traffic hours.

Picture a family trying to enjoy a picnic in the park. The children, excited to play, begin to cough and wheeze. The parents, already vigilant about their children's health, have to cut the outing short.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Community's Fight for Breath**

The good news is that 19147 is not alone in its struggle. The community is actively working to address the asthma challenge. Several local wellness programs and initiatives are making a difference.

* **Community Health Centers:** These centers provide affordable healthcare, including asthma management and education. They often offer culturally sensitive services, crucial for reaching diverse populations.
* **School-Based Programs:** Schools are crucial partners in the fight against asthma. Programs that educate children about asthma triggers, teach them how to manage their symptoms, and provide access to medication can make a significant impact.
* **Environmental Advocacy Groups:** These groups work to improve air quality, advocate for cleaner energy sources, and raise awareness about environmental hazards.
* **Community Gardens:** These gardens not only provide access to fresh produce but also offer opportunities for outdoor activity and community building.
* **Asthma-Specific Support Groups:** These groups provide a safe space for people with asthma and their families to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and access resources.

Imagine a community health worker, knocking on doors, educating families about asthma triggers, and connecting them with resources. Picture a school nurse, administering asthma medication to a child during a flare-up, ensuring they can continue learning.

**The Score: A Complex Equation**

Calculating an "Asthma Score" for 19147 is not a simple task. It's a complex equation that considers demographics, housing conditions, environmental factors, access to healthcare, and the availability of local wellness programs.

While 19147 presents challenges, it also possesses incredible strengths. The strong sense of community, the dedication of local organizations, and the resilience of its residents are all factors that contribute to a positive outlook.

The score, therefore, would likely be a mixed bag. It would reflect the reality of asthma prevalence, the impact of environmental factors, and the disparities that exist within the community. But it would also highlight the positive work being done to improve the health of its residents.

**The Future: Breathing Easier in 19147**

The future of 19147's community health depends on continued collaboration and commitment.

* **Increased investment in affordable housing:** Renovating older buildings to address mold and pest infestations.
* **Improved air quality initiatives:** Promoting cleaner transportation options, such as public transit and electric vehicles.
* **Expanded access to healthcare:** Ensuring that everyone has access to affordable asthma management and education.
* **Strengthened community partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and residents.
* **Empowering residents:** Providing them with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their asthma and advocate for their health.

The air in 19147 is not just a physical element; it's a symbol of the community's health, its struggles, and its aspirations. By working together, by addressing the challenges and celebrating the strengths, the residents of 19147 can ensure that everyone can breathe freely, deeply, and without fear. The score may fluctuate, but the goal remains constant: a healthier, more vibrant 19147 for all.