46128, Fillmore, Indiana COPD Score People Score

The People Score for the COPD Score in 46128, Fillmore, Indiana is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.01 percent of the residents in 46128 has some form of health insurance. 33.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.24 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 46128 would have to travel an average of 6.55 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Putnam County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,932 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 46128, Fillmore, Indiana.

## The Breath of Fillmore: Unpacking Community Health in ZIP Code 46128

The air hangs crisp and clean in Fillmore, Indiana. Not the sterile, filtered air of a city, but the genuine, wind-swept air of a place where the horizon stretches wide and the scent of earth and woodsmoke often mingles. This is 46128, a ZIP code that breathes with a particular rhythm, a rhythm we’re here to explore, focusing on the health of its community, its challenges, and its potential for a vibrant, healthy future. This isn't just about medical charts and statistics; it's about the very essence of life in Fillmore, the choices people make, the spaces they inhabit, and the spirit that binds them together.

Let's be clear: we're not talking about some idyllic, postcard-perfect existence. Every community has its struggles, its vulnerabilities. But in understanding these, we can begin to build a stronger, healthier Fillmore.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry Woven with Generations**

Fillmore, a town of roughly 500 residents, is nestled in Putnam County, a rural county in west-central Indiana. The demographics paint a picture of a close-knit community, a place where families often have deep roots. The median age skews a bit older than the national average, reflecting a population that values stability and a slower pace of life.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands weathered by years of gardening, tending her vibrant rose bushes in her meticulously kept yard. She’s a Fillmore native, her family having farmed the land for generations. She knows the names of everyone on her street, and she's the unofficial historian, sharing stories of the town's past with anyone who'll listen.

Then there's young Ethan, a teenager with a shock of unruly brown hair, dreaming of a future beyond the familiar fields. He's active in the local 4-H club, raising livestock and learning the value of hard work. He’s also keenly aware of the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for young people in Fillmore.

The racial makeup is overwhelmingly white, a reflection of the historical settlement patterns of the area. This homogeneity, while creating a strong sense of community for some, also presents challenges in terms of diversity and exposure to different perspectives. The economic landscape is largely working-class, with many residents employed in agriculture, manufacturing, or local service industries. This can mean a reliance on physically demanding jobs, which can impact long-term health.

**Places to Live: From Quiet Streets to Rolling Fields**

The housing stock in Fillmore reflects its rural character. You'll find charming, well-maintained older homes lining the quiet streets, each with its own unique character. These are often the homes of families who have lived in Fillmore for decades, their walls echoing with the laughter of children and the warmth of shared meals.

Drive just a few miles outside of town, and the landscape opens up. You'll see sprawling farmhouses surrounded by acres of fertile farmland, the heart of the community's economic engine. These homes are often passed down through generations, representing a deep connection to the land and a commitment to the rural way of life.

Consider the Miller family, who live on a sprawling farm just outside of town. Their home is a hub of activity, with children running through the fields, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from the kitchen, and the constant hum of farm machinery. Their connection to the land is palpable, a source of both pride and responsibility.

The availability of affordable housing is a significant factor in the community's health. The cost of living in Fillmore is generally lower than in more urban areas, making it accessible to a wider range of people. However, the availability of rental properties can be limited, and the quality of housing can vary.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Neighbors Know Your Name**

The neighborhood vibe in Fillmore is one of genuine connection. People wave to each other as they drive down the street. They gather at the local diner for coffee and conversation. They volunteer their time to support community events.

Picture the annual Fillmore Town Festival, a vibrant celebration that brings the entire community together. Children ride the Ferris wheel, vendors sell homemade crafts, and the air is filled with the sounds of laughter and music. This is Fillmore at its best, a testament to the strong bonds that tie the community together.

This sense of community is a powerful protective factor for health. Social isolation and loneliness are significant risk factors for a variety of health problems. In Fillmore, the close-knit nature of the community provides a built-in support system, a network of friends and neighbors who look out for each other.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep in Nature's Embrace**

Fillmore is surrounded by the beauty of the Indiana countryside. The rolling hills, the dense forests, and the meandering streams offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Think of the annual Fillmore 5K, a fun run that winds through the scenic backroads, attracting participants of all ages and abilities. The event promotes physical activity and provides a chance for people to connect with nature.

The nearby Lieber State Recreation Area offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. These activities provide a chance to escape the stresses of daily life, to connect with nature, and to improve physical and mental well-being.

The availability of parks and green spaces is a crucial element of community health. Access to outdoor recreation can improve physical fitness, reduce stress, and enhance mental health.

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

Fillmore, like many rural communities, faces challenges in accessing healthcare and wellness resources. However, there are pockets of innovation and dedication to improving community health.

The Putnam County Hospital, located a short drive from Fillmore, is a critical resource, providing essential medical services to the community. They offer a range of programs, including health screenings, chronic disease management, and wellness education.

The local schools play a vital role in promoting the health of children and families. They offer physical education classes, healthy eating initiatives, and mental health support services.

Imagine the local library hosting a free yoga class, providing a space for residents to learn about mindfulness and stress reduction. Or the community center offering cooking classes focused on healthy, affordable meals. These initiatives, though perhaps small in scale, can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of the community.

The challenge lies in expanding these programs and ensuring that they are accessible to everyone in the community. This requires collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and residents.

**Challenges and Opportunities: Charting a Course for a Healthier Fillmore**

Fillmore, like any community, faces challenges. The aging population, the limited access to specialized healthcare, and the economic pressures on working-class families are all factors that can impact health.

The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and COPD, is a concern. These diseases are often linked to lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and smoking.

The lack of access to mental health services is another significant challenge. Mental health issues can affect people of all ages, and access to timely and affordable care is essential.

However, Fillmore also has significant strengths. The strong sense of community, the access to outdoor recreation, and the growing awareness of the importance of health and wellness are all assets that can be leveraged to build a healthier future.

The opportunity lies in fostering a culture of health, where healthy choices are the easy choices. This requires a multi-pronged approach, including:

* **Promoting healthy lifestyles:** Encouraging physical activity, healthy eating, and tobacco cessation.
* **Improving access to healthcare:** Expanding access to primary care, mental health services, and chronic disease management programs.
* **Strengthening community partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and residents.
* **Addressing social determinants of health:** Addressing factors such as poverty, housing, and food insecurity that can impact health.

**The Breath of Fillmore: A Call to Action**

The future of community health in Fillmore depends on the collective efforts of its residents, its leaders, and its organizations. It's about creating a place where people can thrive, where they can live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

It's about Mrs. Gable tending her roses, Ethan pursuing his dreams, and the entire community coming together to support each other. It's about breathing deep the clean air of Fillmore, and working together to ensure that the breath of life is strong and healthy for generations to come. The COPD score for Fillmore, in its essence, is not just a number; it's a reflection of the heart and soul of the community, its resilience, and its unwavering commitment to a brighter, healthier future.