37317, Copperhill, Tennessee Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 37317, Copperhill, Tennessee is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.47 percent of the residents in 37317 has some form of health insurance. 40.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.82 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 37317 would have to travel an average of 28.21 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Tennova Health Care-Cleveland. In a 20-mile radius, there are 82 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 37317, Copperhill, Tennessee.

## Breathing Easy in Copperhill: A Community Health Asthma Score for 37317

The crisp mountain air, the rush of the Ocoee River, the friendly wave from a neighbor – these are the hallmarks of Copperhill, Tennessee, a town nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, sharing a border with McCaysville, Georgia. But beneath the postcard-perfect veneer, the health of this community, particularly the prevalence of asthma, demands a closer look. This isn’t just about statistics; it's about the breath of life, the ability to fully experience the beauty and vitality of Copperhill. This article offers an "Asthma Score" perspective, examining the factors impacting community health in ZIP Code 37317, providing insights and a call to action for a healthier future.

**The Scorecard: A Holistic View**

We're not just crunching numbers here. An "Asthma Score" isn't a single metric; it's a composite, a tapestry woven from demographics, environmental factors, access to care, and the very fabric of community life. It's about understanding the challenges and celebrating the strengths of Copperhill, all with the goal of improving respiratory health.

**Demographics: A Portrait of the People**

Copperhill is a town of approximately 1,000 residents, a close-knit community with a strong sense of identity. The population skews older, with a significant percentage of retirees drawn to the tranquility and affordability of the area. The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of Hispanic/Latino residents. Income levels are generally lower than the national average, and access to resources can be limited.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, a retired teacher, enjoying her morning coffee on her porch, overlooking the rolling hills. She's lived in Copperhill her entire life, raised her family here, and has witnessed the ebb and flow of the community. She remembers the days when the copper mines dominated the landscape, leaving a legacy of environmental challenges. She's seen the town evolve, embracing tourism and outdoor recreation, but she also worries about the health of her neighbors, especially those struggling with asthma.

**Places to Live: Where We Breathe**

The housing stock in Copperhill is a mix of older homes, some well-maintained, others showing their age. Newer developments are emerging, offering more modern amenities. The quality of housing plays a crucial role in respiratory health. Mold, dust mites, and poor ventilation can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Consider the old Victorian house on Main Street, with its peeling paint and slightly musty smell. It's a beautiful structure, but the potential for allergens and poor indoor air quality is significant. Conversely, the new, energy-efficient homes springing up on the outskirts offer a healthier living environment, with better insulation and air filtration systems. The disparity in housing quality highlights a key challenge: ensuring that all residents have access to safe and healthy living spaces.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of the Community**

The "neighborhood vibe" is a powerful, often overlooked, factor in community health. Copperhill has a strong sense of community, where neighbors know each other, and support systems are often informal but effective. This social cohesion can be a buffer against stress, a known trigger for asthma.

Picture the annual Copperhill Days festival, a vibrant celebration of local culture. The laughter, the music, the shared meals – these moments of connection foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. However, the festival also brings crowds, increased vehicle emissions, and potential exposure to allergens, highlighting the need for a balance between community celebrations and respiratory health awareness.

**Environmental Factors: The Air We Breathe**

Copperhill's location in a valley, surrounded by mountains, presents both advantages and disadvantages. The clean mountain air is a draw for many, but the topography can also trap pollutants. Air quality is influenced by factors like vehicle emissions, wood-burning stoves, and seasonal pollen counts.

Think of the Ocoee River, a source of both beauty and potential allergens. The lush vegetation along its banks can release pollen, triggering asthma symptoms for susceptible individuals. The proximity to the river also means increased humidity, which can contribute to mold growth in homes.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep, or Not?**

Copperhill is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, fishing, and whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River are popular activities. However, for individuals with asthma, these activities can present challenges.

Imagine a young boy, eager to join his friends on a hike in the nearby Cherokee National Forest. He loves the outdoors, but the exertion and exposure to pollen can trigger his asthma. The availability of easily accessible, well-maintained trails, along with information on pollen counts and air quality, becomes crucial for enabling safe outdoor recreation for all.

**Access to Care: The Healthcare Landscape**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount for managing asthma. This includes access to primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable medications. Copperhill has limited healthcare resources within the ZIP code, and residents often rely on healthcare providers in neighboring towns.

Consider Mr. Rodriguez, a construction worker who recently moved to Copperhill. He struggles to find time for regular check-ups due to his demanding work schedule. The lack of readily available healthcare options, coupled with potential language barriers, can create significant challenges for him in managing his asthma.

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

The presence of local wellness programs can significantly impact community health. These programs can provide education, resources, and support for individuals with asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Imagine a community health fair, where local healthcare providers offer free asthma screenings, educational materials, and demonstrations on proper inhaler technique. These initiatives empower individuals to take control of their health and improve their quality of life.

**The "Asthma Score" in Action: Recommendations and a Path Forward**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Asthma Score" for Copperhill (37317) reveals both strengths and areas for improvement. The strong sense of community, the natural beauty of the area, and the growing interest in outdoor recreation are positive factors. However, challenges remain in areas such as housing quality, access to healthcare, and environmental factors.

**Recommendations:**

* **Improve Housing Quality:** Implement programs to assist homeowners with home repairs, mold remediation, and energy-efficient upgrades.
* **Enhance Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased healthcare resources, including primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable medications. Explore telehealth options to improve access to care.
* **Promote Environmental Awareness:** Educate residents about air quality, pollen counts, and the impact of wood-burning stoves. Encourage the use of cleaner energy sources.
* **Support Local Wellness Programs:** Expand existing programs and create new initiatives focused on asthma education, management, and prevention.
* **Foster Community Collaboration:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to address the specific needs of individuals with asthma.
* **Create Safe Outdoor Spaces:** Develop accessible trails with clear signage regarding pollen counts and air quality. Offer asthma-friendly outdoor activities.
* **Educate and Empower:** Provide asthma education to schools, workplaces, and community centers. Equip individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition.

**The Future: Breathing Easier Together**

Improving the "Asthma Score" in Copperhill requires a collaborative effort. It's about fostering a community where everyone can breathe easy, where the beauty of the mountains can be enjoyed by all, and where the health of the community is a shared priority. It's about creating a future where Mrs. Gable can continue to enjoy her porch, Mr. Rodriguez can work without fear of his asthma, and the young boy can hike with his friends, breathing in the fresh mountain air with ease. The journey to a healthier Copperhill begins with understanding the challenges, celebrating the strengths, and working together to create a community where everyone can thrive. The "Asthma Score" is not just a number; it's a call to action, a roadmap to a healthier, more vibrant future for the people of 37317.