23138, Port Haywood, Virginia Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 23138, Port Haywood, Virginia is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.01 percent of the residents in 23138 has some form of health insurance. 41.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.04 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 23138 would have to travel an average of 14.28 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Riverside Walter Reed Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 227 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 23138, Port Haywood, Virginia.

## The Port Haywood Pulse: Decoding the Asthma Score & Building a Breath of Fresh Air in 23138

The salty tang of the Chesapeake Bay hangs heavy in the air, a constant reminder of the lifeblood that flows through the veins of Port Haywood, Virginia. Nestled in the heart of Mathews County, this unincorporated community, defined by the ZIP code 23138, is a tapestry woven with threads of maritime history, close-knit neighborliness, and a quiet resilience. But beneath the surface of this idyllic portrait, a crucial question lingers: how healthy are we, really? And more specifically, how is the health of our lungs, and the shadow of asthma, impacting the rhythm of life in Port Haywood?

This isn't just a theoretical query. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, can cast a long shadow, limiting activity, disrupting sleep, and even posing a serious health risk. While precise, publicly available asthma prevalence rates for a specific ZIP code are often difficult to pinpoint, we can use a variety of data points – demographics, access to healthcare, environmental factors, and community resources – to build an “Asthma Score” snapshot of Port Haywood, a score that helps us understand the challenges and opportunities that exist for cultivating a healthier, more breathable community.

**Decoding the Demographics: Understanding the Players in the Game**

The first step in understanding the health landscape is to understand the people who live here. 23138 is a community with a relatively stable population, a mix of long-time residents and newcomers drawn by the allure of the water and the slower pace of life. The median age skews older than the state average, reflecting a significant retiree population. This demographic shift can influence health outcomes, as older adults are often more susceptible to chronic conditions, including respiratory illnesses.

Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a retired schoolteacher, tending her meticulously manicured garden overlooking the Piankatank River. The scent of honeysuckle mingles with the salty breeze, a familiar comfort. But for Mrs. Eleanor, like many in her age group, the changing seasons and the pollen count become a daily battle. The subtle wheeze that accompanies a bout of seasonal allergies can quickly escalate, reminding her of the ever-present possibility of an asthma flare-up.

The racial makeup of 23138 is predominantly White, with a smaller percentage of African American residents. Socioeconomic factors play a crucial role in health outcomes. While the area boasts a relatively low poverty rate compared to the state, disparities can still exist. Limited access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, potentially exacerbating asthma triggers and hindering effective management.

Consider the young family living in a modest home near the creek. The father works long hours as a commercial fisherman, while the mother juggles multiple part-time jobs. Their children, like many in the community, spend their days playing outdoors, exploring the marshes and the shoreline. But the family's limited resources can mean delayed medical attention, making it harder to manage potential asthma triggers like mold or dust mites in their home.

**Places to Live: Navigating the Environmental Landscape**

The environment itself is a powerful influence on respiratory health. Port Haywood's proximity to the water offers undeniable beauty and recreational opportunities. But it also brings with it specific environmental considerations.

The air quality, generally good, can be impacted by seasonal changes, including pollen from the abundant oak and pine trees. Allergens, like mold and dust mites, thrive in the humid climate, posing potential triggers for asthma sufferers.

The housing stock in 23138 is diverse, ranging from historic waterfront homes to more modest residences. The age and condition of the housing can significantly impact indoor air quality. Older homes may contain mold, lead paint, or other allergens, while newer homes may have issues related to ventilation or off-gassing from building materials.

Picture the charming, but aging, cottage tucked away on a quiet side street. The weathered clapboard siding and the overgrown garden speak of a life lived close to the land. But inside, unseen threats may lurk. The damp basement, the musty smell, the dust bunnies under the furniture – all potential triggers for asthma.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Building a Supportive Community**

Beyond the physical environment, the social fabric of a community plays a crucial role in health outcomes. The "neighborhood vibe" of Port Haywood is characterized by a strong sense of community, where neighbors know each other and look out for one another. This can be a significant asset in promoting health and well-being.

Imagine the annual oyster roast, a cornerstone of the community calendar. Neighbors gather, sharing stories, laughter, and the bounty of the bay. This sense of connection, of belonging, can be a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, both of which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

However, the community's relative isolation, while offering tranquility, can also present challenges. Access to specialized medical care, including pulmonologists and asthma specialists, might require travel to larger cities like Richmond or Newport News. This can create a barrier for those who lack transportation or face financial constraints.

**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Life into the Community**

The good news is that Port Haywood is not a passive observer in its own health journey. Several local initiatives and resources contribute to the community's well-being.

The Mathews County Health Department plays a vital role in providing essential health services, including asthma education and management programs. They offer resources for identifying and mitigating asthma triggers, such as home inspections and educational workshops.

The local YMCA and community centers offer opportunities for physical activity, a crucial component of managing asthma. Regular exercise can strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve overall lung function.

Picture a group of seniors participating in a gentle yoga class at the community center. The instructor, a local resident, emphasizes breathing techniques, helping participants learn to manage their asthma symptoms through mindful movement.

Local pharmacies and healthcare providers play a crucial role in providing access to asthma medications and offering guidance on proper inhaler use. The availability of these resources is essential for effective asthma management.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Breath of Fresh Air**

Port Haywood's natural beauty is a major draw for residents and visitors alike. The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities can contribute to a healthy lifestyle, but it also requires a mindful approach to asthma management.

The Piankatank River and the Chesapeake Bay offer endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. These activities can provide physical activity and a connection to nature, but they also require awareness of potential asthma triggers, such as pollen or air pollution.

The local parks and trails offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the outdoors. However, individuals with asthma need to be mindful of pollen counts and other environmental factors that might trigger their symptoms.

Imagine a family enjoying a bike ride along the scenic waterfront trail. The children, wearing helmets and smiles, pedal happily, while their parents monitor the air quality and ensure their inhalers are readily available.

**The Asthma Score: A Call to Action**

So, what does the "Asthma Score" for Port Haywood, Virginia (23138) look like? It's not a single, definitive number, but rather a complex picture painted with data, observations, and community insights.

Based on the available information, we can infer that the community faces a moderate risk level. Factors like an aging population, potential housing challenges, and seasonal allergies contribute to the risk. However, the strong sense of community, the availability of local resources, and the abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities offer significant protective factors.

The "Asthma Score" is not a judgment, but a call to action. It highlights the need for continued efforts to:

* **Enhance access to affordable healthcare:** Ensuring all residents have access to quality medical care, including specialized asthma care, is paramount.
* **Promote asthma education and awareness:** Empowering residents with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their asthma effectively is crucial.
* **Improve indoor air quality:** Providing resources for home inspections and addressing housing-related asthma triggers can significantly improve respiratory health.
* **Support healthy lifestyle choices:** Encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy eating habits, and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants can contribute to overall well-being.
* **Foster community collaboration:** Strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for creating a healthier community.

The future of respiratory health in Port Haywood depends on a collaborative effort. By understanding the challenges, leveraging the strengths of the community, and embracing a proactive approach, we can build a breath of fresh air for everyone in 23138. The salty breeze will continue to blow, the oyster roasts will continue to warm the heart, and the community will continue to thrive, one healthy breath at a time.