99554, Alakanuk, Alaska COPD Score

The COPD Score in 99554, Alakanuk, Alaska is 1 out of 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of the population in 99554 drive to work alone. 0.00 percent of the people take some form of public transportation like the bus or the train to work. Approximately 97.42 percent of the residents get to work in less than 30 minutes. 1.29 percent of the residents in 99554 get to work in more than 60 minutes. The average household size is approximately 4.10 members with about 0.07 cars available per household.

An estimate of 87.32 percent of the residents in 99554 has some form of health insurance. 73.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 17.09 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 99554 would have to travel an average of miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, No nearby hospital found . In a 20-mile radius, there are 0 healthcare providers accessible to residents in 99554, Alakanuk, Alaska.

As of , an estimate of 1,065 residents live in 99554 with a median age of 22.3 years. 42.44 percent of the population is under the age of 18, and 4.13 percent of the population is at least 65 years of age. 37.26 percent of the residents in 99554 is currently married, and 35.95 percent of the population has never been married.

The monthly median household income in 99554 is $3,005.92. The monthly median housing costs for residents in 99554 is approximately $686. The median household spends about 22.82 percent of their income on housing.

Alakanuk, Alaska, with the ZIP Code 99554, is a remote and tight-knit community located in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. It is home to approximately 700 residents who enjoy a traditional Alaskan lifestyle in a stunning natural setting. When considering a move to this area, especially for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it's crucial to understand the healthcare amenities available and how locals typically access healthcare.

Healthcare Accessibility
For those living with COPD, access to quality healthcare is essential for managing their condition. COPD is a chronic lung disease that makes breathing difficult and worsens over time. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Given the nature of this condition, regular medical care and access to specialized treatments are vital.

In Alakanuk, healthcare accessibility can be a challenge due to its remote location. The village is only accessible by small aircraft or boat, and there are no roads connecting it to other communities. Despite these challenges, Alakanuk is equipped with a primary healthcare facility that provides essential medical services to residents.

Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) operates the Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital in nearby Bethel, which serves as the regional hub for healthcare services. Residents of Alakanuk can access primary care, emergency services, and some specialty care at this hospital. However, individuals with COPD may find it challenging to make frequent trips to Bethel for medical appointments due to transportation limitations.

Cost of Missed Appointments
Missing medical appointments can have significant financial implications for individuals with COPD. In addition to the impact on their health, missed appointments can result in wasted resources and increased healthcare costs. For those living in Alakanuk, where transportation options are limited, missing an appointment can be particularly burdensome.

Local Health Initiatives
Despite the geographical challenges, the community of Alakanuk has implemented several initiatives to promote health and wellness among its residents. These initiatives include educational programs on smoking cessation and respiratory health aimed at preventing and managing conditions like COPD.

Proximity of Healthcare Facilities
While Alakanuk itself may not have specialized healthcare facilities for COPD management, its proximity to the Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital in Bethel provides residents with access to comprehensive medical care. The hospital offers diagnostic services, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and access to specialists who can help individuals manage their COPD effectively.

Transportation Options
In terms of transportation options for accessing healthcare facilities in Bethel, residents of Alakanuk primarily rely on small aircraft operated by companies such as Ravn Alaska and Grant Aviation. These airlines offer scheduled flights between Alakanuk and Bethel multiple times per week, providing essential connectivity for medical appointments.

For those who prefer an alternative mode of transportation or need to travel within Bethel upon arrival, car rentals are available from companies like Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Alaska Car Rental. Additionally, ride-sharing services such as Uber do not operate in this region; however, local taxi companies offer transportation within Bethel.

Local History
Alakanuk has a rich history deeply rooted in Yup'ik Eskimo culture. The community's traditional lifestyle revolves around subsistence activities such as fishing and hunting. Residents take pride in preserving their cultural heritage through dance festivals, storytelling events, and other traditional activities that showcase their unique way of life.

Accessing Healthcare for COPD Management
Locals with COPD typically navigate the challenges of accessing healthcare by coordinating their medical appointments during scheduled flights from Alakanuk to Bethel. It requires careful planning and coordination with healthcare providers to ensure that they can receive the necessary care while minimizing travel-related stress.

In conclusion,
Alakanuk presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals considering a move to this remote Alaskan community. While access to specialized healthcare services may require additional planning and travel due to its remote location, the community's strong cultural heritage and close-knit atmosphere offer a unique living experience for those seeking a traditional Alaskan lifestyle.