The People Score for the Asthma Score in 37396, Whiteside, Tennessee is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.63 percent of the residents in 37396 has some form of health insurance. 78.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.14 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 37396 would have to travel an average of 11.96 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Erlanger Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,271 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 37396, Whiteside, Tennessee.
Health Scores in 37396, Whiteside, Tennessee
Asthma Score | 93 |
---|---|
People Score | 98 |
Provider Score | 94 |
Hospital Score | 48 |
Travel Score | 31 |
37396 | Whiteside | Tennessee | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 26.59 | 26.59 | 52.80 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 57.54 | 57.54 | 13.89 |
Medicare | 64.68 | 64.68 | 18.44 |
Medicaid | 13.49 | 13.49 | 19.58 |
TRICARE | 7.14 | 7.14 | 3.33 |
VA | 59.92 | 59.92 | 52.85 |
Percent Insured in 37396, Whiteside, Tennessee
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
37396 | Whiteside | Tennessee | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 94.82 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 85.90 | 85.90 | 85.40 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.46 |
## The Breath of Whiteside: Unpacking the Asthma Score and Building a Healthier 37396
The air hangs thick and humid in Whiteside, Tennessee. It’s a characteristic of the Tennessee River Valley, a landscape sculpted by water and time, where the sun beats down with a persistent intensity. But for some residents of the 37396 ZIP code, the air isn't just humid; it's a challenge. It's a trigger. It's a potential threat. We're talking about asthma, and understanding its impact on community health in Whiteside is crucial to building a healthier future.
This isn't just about statistics; it's about the everyday lives of the people who call Whiteside home. It's about the children who can't run as freely on the playground, the adults who struggle to breathe during the hay fever season, and the families who worry about the next asthma attack. This article aims to delve into the "Asthma Score" of 37396, not as a simple number, but as a reflection of the community's health, its challenges, and its potential for a brighter, healthier tomorrow.
**Understanding the Score: A Look at the Landscape**
Before we dive into the specifics of the 37396 ZIP code, let's understand what factors contribute to an "Asthma Score." This score isn't a standardized metric, but rather a holistic assessment that considers various elements impacting asthma prevalence and severity within a community. These include:
* **Environmental Factors:** Air quality, pollen counts, humidity, and the presence of mold and allergens in homes.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty levels, access to healthcare, housing conditions, and educational attainment.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking rates, physical activity levels, and access to healthy food options.
* **Demographic Factors:** Age, race, and ethnicity, as certain populations are disproportionately affected by asthma.
**Whiteside, Tennessee: A Portrait of the Community**
Whiteside, nestled in Marion County, is a community with a rich history and a unique character. The 37396 ZIP code encompasses a diverse range of neighborhoods, from established residential areas to more rural pockets. The Tennessee River, the lifeblood of the region, snakes its way through the landscape, offering stunning views and recreational opportunities.
**Demographics in Detail:**
* **Population:** The population of 37396 is a mix of long-time residents and newcomers, with a growing number of families. The area is experiencing moderate growth, with new housing developments appearing alongside older, established homes.
* **Age:** The age distribution is fairly diverse, with a significant number of children and young adults, making asthma a particularly pressing concern.
* **Socioeconomic Status:** While the cost of living in Whiteside is relatively affordable, pockets of poverty exist. This can impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and quality housing, all factors that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
* **Race and Ethnicity:** The community is predominantly white, but there is a growing Hispanic population. Understanding the unique health challenges and needs of each demographic group is crucial for developing effective interventions.
**Places to Live and Their Impact:**
The type of housing and the surrounding environment can significantly impact asthma triggers. Let's consider a few examples:
* **The Riverfront Cottages:** Imagine a charming cottage nestled along the banks of the Tennessee River. While the views are breathtaking, the proximity to the water means higher humidity levels, potentially fostering mold growth, a common asthma trigger.
* **The Oakwood Estates:** Picture a newer development with manicured lawns and meticulously maintained homes. While these homes may appear pristine, the use of pesticides and herbicides on the lawns can introduce allergens and irritants into the air.
* **The Historic Downtown Area:** The older homes in the downtown area often have charm and character. However, they may also have older HVAC systems, potential for mold and dust mites, and less effective insulation, which can contribute to poor indoor air quality.
* **The Rural Outskirts:** The more rural areas offer a different set of challenges. Exposure to pollen from fields and farms, as well as potential exposure to agricultural chemicals, can trigger asthma symptoms.
**The Asthma Score in 37396: Unpacking the Challenges**
Based on the factors mentioned above, the "Asthma Score" for 37396 likely reflects a complex picture. Several factors could contribute to a higher score:
* **Environmental Challenges:** High humidity, seasonal pollen counts, and potential air quality issues from nearby industrial activity or vehicle emissions can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
* **Socioeconomic Disparities:** Limited access to healthcare, particularly for low-income families, can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment of asthma. Poor housing conditions, such as mold and inadequate ventilation, can also worsen symptoms.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Smoking rates and limited access to healthy food options can contribute to overall poor health and increase asthma prevalence.
**Vignette: The Story of Maria and Her Son, Leo**
Maria, a single mother, lives in a modest apartment in the downtown area with her son, Leo, who is eight years old. Leo was diagnosed with asthma a few years ago. The older building has its quirks: a musty smell, a leaky faucet, and a persistent dampness that seems to cling to everything. Maria worries constantly. She struggles to afford Leo's medication and the occasional doctor's visit. The nearest clinic is a bus ride away, and she often has to choose between buying groceries and filling Leo's prescriptions. She feels isolated, but she's fiercely protective of Leo, constantly monitoring his breathing and keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast, knowing that pollen counts and humidity can trigger his asthma. She dreams of a better life for Leo, one where he can run and play without fear.
**Building a Healthier Whiteside: Opportunities for Improvement**
Despite the challenges, there's a real opportunity to improve the "Asthma Score" in 37396. This requires a collaborative effort involving community members, healthcare providers, local government, and non-profit organizations.
**Local Wellness Programs: A Breath of Fresh Air**
* **Asthma Education and Management Programs:** Implementing educational programs in schools and community centers can empower individuals with asthma to manage their condition effectively. These programs can teach about triggers, medication use, and emergency action plans.
* **Free and Low-Cost Clinics:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare is crucial. This includes increasing the availability of free and low-cost clinics, particularly those specializing in respiratory health.
* **Home Environmental Assessments:** Providing free or low-cost home environmental assessments can help identify and address asthma triggers in homes, such as mold, dust mites, and poor ventilation.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Offering accessible and effective smoking cessation programs can reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, a major asthma trigger.
* **Healthy Food Initiatives:** Promoting access to healthy food options through community gardens, farmers' markets, and nutrition education programs can improve overall health and reduce asthma symptoms.
**Neighborhood Vibe: Fostering a Supportive Community**
* **Community Events:** Organizing community events, such as health fairs and outdoor activities, can raise awareness about asthma and promote healthy lifestyles.
* **Support Groups:** Creating support groups for individuals with asthma and their families can provide emotional support and a sense of community.
* **Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations can ensure a coordinated approach to asthma management.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Easy in the Great Outdoors**
* **Safe Parks and Playgrounds:** Ensuring that parks and playgrounds are safe and accessible for children with asthma is essential. This includes regular maintenance, allergen control, and access to shaded areas.
* **Outdoor Education:** Promoting outdoor education programs that teach children about nature and the importance of environmental health.
* **River Access and Recreation:** Promoting safe and accessible river access and recreation opportunities, such as kayaking and fishing, can encourage physical activity and connection with nature.
* **Air Quality Monitoring:** Implementing air quality monitoring programs can help identify and address sources of air pollution, protecting the health of the community.
**Vignette: The Community Garden**
Imagine a plot of land transformed into a vibrant community garden. Volunteers are planting vegetables, sharing gardening tips, and connecting with each other. Leo, along with other children, helps water the plants, their laughter echoing through the air. Maria, now a volunteer, is learning about healthy eating and connecting with other parents facing similar challenges. The garden provides fresh, healthy produce and a sense of community, a place where everyone can breathe a little easier.
**The Road Ahead: A Collective Effort**
Improving the "Asthma Score" in 37396 is not a quick fix. It requires a sustained and collaborative effort. By addressing environmental, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors, and by fostering a supportive community, Whiteside can create a healthier environment for all its residents. It's about empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building a community where everyone can breathe freely and thrive. It's about recognizing that the breath of Whiteside is a shared responsibility, and that together, we can create a healthier, more vibrant future for the 37396 ZIP code. The journey won't be easy, but with dedication, compassion, and a shared vision, Whiteside can become a model for community health, where the air is clean, the community is strong, and the future is bright.
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