Breast Cancer Score

01464, Shirley, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score People Score

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Health Scores

People Score in 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts

The People Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.35 percent of the residents in 01464 has some form of health insurance. 24.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.39 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 01464 would have to travel an average of 4.69 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Nashoba Valley Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 811 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts.

Health Scores in 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts

Breast Cancer Score 32
People Score 37
Provider Score 51
Hospital Score 22
Travel Score 56

Insurance Types

01464 Shirley Massachusetts
Employer Insurance 53.65 53.65 62.38
Direct Purchase Insurance 10.43 10.43 13.94
Medicare 17.47 17.47 17.14
Medicaid 13.96 13.96 22.29
TRICARE 2.51 2.51 1.10
VA 37.26 37.26 52.01

Percent Insured in 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

01464 Shirley Massachusetts
Under 19 92.45 92.45 98.49
Adults (19-64 years) 98.31 98.31 96.16
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 100.00 99.61

People Score Review of 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts

## The Shirley Score: Vigor, Vitality, and the Fight Against Breast Cancer in 01464

The crisp air of Shirley, Massachusetts, bites with a promise of change. It’s a town steeped in history, from its industrial past to its present-day embrace of a more sustainable future. But beneath the charming facade, like in any community, lies a complex tapestry of community health, a critical factor in the fight against breast cancer. This isn't just about medical interventions; it's about the very fabric of life, the choices residents make, and the resources available to them. This is the Shirley Score, a deep dive into the health landscape of 01464, with a particular focus on factors impacting breast cancer risk and prevention.

**The Pulse of the People: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Imagine the sun setting over the Nashua River, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. The gentle current whispers through the trees lining the shoreline, a constant reminder of the natural beauty that defines Shirley. This is a town where the past and present collide. The historic buildings of the former Fort Devens, now repurposed for various uses, stand as silent witnesses to the evolving community.

Shirley, with a population hovering around 7,500, is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic/Latino population adding a vibrant cultural layer. The median age leans towards the older side, reflecting a mix of long-term residents and those drawn to the town's affordability and proximity to larger cities like Boston and Worcester. Understanding these demographics is crucial. Age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status all play a role in breast cancer risk factors, access to healthcare, and the adoption of preventative measures.

The town’s housing landscape is diverse. You have the charming, historic homes lining Main Street, the more modern developments offering suburban comforts, and even the unique, converted spaces within the former Fort Devens. This variety reflects a community that strives to be inclusive, but it also presents challenges. Access to quality housing, safe neighborhoods, and affordable living are all essential ingredients for a healthy community.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Flourishes**

Picture the Shirley Town Common on a Saturday morning. Families gather, children chase each other across the green, and the air hums with the sounds of laughter and conversation. This is the heart of Shirley, a place where community bonds are forged and strengthened. The town's small size fosters a sense of connection, where neighbors know each other and support each other.

This close-knit atmosphere is a powerful asset in the fight against breast cancer. Word-of-mouth communication is vital. When residents are aware of local resources, screening programs, and healthy lifestyle initiatives, they're more likely to take proactive steps. The local library, a hub of information and community events, plays a crucial role in disseminating health information. The town's website and social media pages also serve as valuable channels for sharing vital health updates and promoting awareness.

However, maintaining this strong sense of community requires conscious effort. The town needs to actively engage all residents, ensuring that everyone feels included and informed. This means reaching out to diverse populations, providing information in multiple languages, and addressing any barriers to access, such as transportation or childcare.

**The Pillars of Wellness: Healthy Lifestyle in Shirley**

The Shirley Score isn't just about identifying risks; it's about celebrating the opportunities for a healthier life. And in 01464, those opportunities are plentiful.

Imagine a brisk walk along the Nashua River Rail Trail, the crunch of leaves underfoot, the invigorating air filling your lungs. This paved pathway, a converted rail line, is a gem for outdoor recreation. It provides a safe and accessible space for walking, running, biking, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of breast cancer prevention, and the Rail Trail makes it easy and enjoyable.

The town also boasts several parks and recreational areas, including the beautiful and historic Phoenix Park. These spaces encourage outdoor activities, fostering a sense of well-being and providing opportunities for social interaction.

But a healthy lifestyle extends beyond physical activity. It also encompasses diet, stress management, and access to healthcare. The town’s farmers' market, a seasonal event, offers fresh, locally sourced produce, encouraging healthy eating habits. The availability of grocery stores with healthy food options is also essential.

**Local Wellness Programs: Champions of Health**

The success of any community health initiative hinges on the availability of local wellness programs. Shirley is fortunate to have a network of organizations dedicated to promoting health and well-being.

The town's senior center plays a vital role in providing health education, fitness classes, and social support for older residents. Regular screenings and health workshops are often offered, helping to identify and address potential health concerns early on.

Local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, are the frontline defenders against breast cancer. They provide essential screenings, such as mammograms, and offer guidance on risk factors and preventative measures. The availability and accessibility of these services are critical.

The town's schools also play a crucial role in promoting healthy habits among children and adolescents. Health education programs, physical education classes, and access to nutritious meals in the school cafeteria can have a lasting impact on their future health.

**The Challenges and the Call to Action**

The Shirley Score, while highlighting the positive aspects of community health in 01464, also acknowledges the challenges that remain.

Access to affordable healthcare can be a barrier for some residents. Transportation to medical appointments, particularly for those without reliable transportation, can also be a challenge. The town needs to explore ways to address these issues, such as offering transportation assistance or partnering with local healthcare providers to offer mobile screening services.

Promoting breast cancer awareness and encouraging regular screenings is an ongoing effort. The town can partner with local organizations to host educational events, provide information in multiple languages, and ensure that all residents are aware of the importance of early detection.

Addressing the social determinants of health is also crucial. This includes ensuring access to safe housing, affordable food, and economic opportunities. The town can work with local organizations to provide resources and support to residents facing these challenges.

**The Shirley Score: A Living Document**

The Shirley Score is not a static assessment; it's a living document, a call to action. It's a framework for ongoing improvement, a roadmap for building a healthier community.

The town's leaders, residents, and community organizations must work together to prioritize community health. This means investing in local wellness programs, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring that all residents have access to the resources they need to thrive.

**The Future of 01464: A Vision of Health**

Imagine Shirley in five years. The Nashua River Rail Trail is even more vibrant, with more residents enjoying its benefits. The town common is bustling with community events, including regular health fairs and awareness campaigns. The local healthcare providers are actively engaged in outreach efforts, ensuring that all residents have access to preventative screenings.

The community is actively engaged in discussions about health, sharing information, and supporting each other. The Shirley Score has become a source of pride, a testament to the town's commitment to building a healthier future.

This is the vision for 01464: a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. It's a vision where the fight against breast cancer is not just a medical battle, but a community-wide effort, woven into the very fabric of life. It’s a place where the crisp air of change carries with it the promise of a healthier, more vibrant Shirley. The Shirley Score is a reminder that the health of a community is a shared responsibility, and in 01464, that responsibility is being embraced with energy, dedication, and a deep commitment to the well-being of all its residents.

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Health Scores Near 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts

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