28379, Rockingham, North Carolina COPD Score People Score

The People Score for the COPD Score in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.98 percent of the residents in 28379 has some form of health insurance. 51.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.75 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28379 would have to travel an average of 19.85 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Atrium Health Anson. In a 20-mile radius, there are 670 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina.

## The Breath of Rockingham: Scoring Community Health in 28379

The air hangs thick and humid over Rockingham, North Carolina. It's a feeling you can almost taste, a blend of sweet tea, freshly cut grass, and the lingering scent of barbecue smoke from a hundred backyards. This is 28379, a ZIP code that holds a tapestry of lives, woven together by generations, by the ebb and flow of the Pee Dee River, and by the shared experience of small-town living. But beneath the surface of Southern charm, a quiet battle rages: the fight for breath, the struggle against Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Understanding the community health landscape here, the factors that contribute to and detract from well-being, is crucial to helping residents breathe easier and live fuller lives. This is our COPD Score for Rockingham, a deep dive into the heart of 28379.

**Demographics: The Fabric of 28379**

Before we can assess community health, we need to understand the people who make up this community. Rockingham, and the surrounding area encompassed by 28379, is a predominantly rural community. The population skews older, with a significant percentage of residents over 65. This aging demographic is a key factor in the prevalence of COPD, as lung function naturally declines with age.

The racial makeup of 28379 is a blend of Black/African American and White communities, with a growing Hispanic/Latino population adding to the cultural richness. This diversity brings strengths, but also presents challenges. Socioeconomic disparities exist, impacting access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe housing – all crucial elements in preventing and managing COPD. A lower median household income compared to state and national averages can translate to limited access to preventative care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

The presence of historical industries, like textiles and manufacturing, has also left its mark. Exposure to dust, fumes, and other airborne irritants in these workplaces may have contributed to respiratory problems for some residents, further increasing their risk of developing COPD. Understanding this history is vital to addressing current health challenges.

**Places to Live: Where the Heart of the Community Beats**

The physical environment plays a significant role in community health. In 28379, the landscape is a mix of rolling hills, farmland, and pockets of residential areas. The downtown area, anchored by the historic Richmond County Courthouse, is experiencing a revitalization. New businesses are opening, and efforts are underway to attract investment and improve the quality of life.

Homes range from charming, well-maintained bungalows to more modest dwellings. The condition of housing is a critical factor. Substandard housing, with issues like mold, poor ventilation, and inadequate heating and cooling, can exacerbate respiratory problems. The availability of affordable, quality housing is therefore a key component of community health.

Beyond the residential areas, the presence of parks and green spaces is vital. The Hitchcock Creek Trail, a popular walking and biking path that follows the course of the creek, offers a valuable opportunity for outdoor recreation. The accessibility and safety of these spaces are important considerations. Are they well-maintained? Are they easily accessible to all residents, regardless of age or physical ability?

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of Connection**

The intangible aspects of community life are just as important as the physical environment. The "neighborhood vibe" is the feeling of connection, belonging, and social support. In Rockingham, this is often characterized by a strong sense of community, where neighbors know each other and look out for one another.

However, the close-knit nature of a small town can also present challenges. Social isolation, particularly among older adults, can be a factor. Limited access to transportation can restrict social interaction and access to healthcare. Addressing social determinants of health, like social isolation, is a crucial element in improving community health.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The presence of local wellness programs is a critical indicator of a community's commitment to health. Rockingham boasts several initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of its residents.

The Richmond County Health Department plays a vital role, offering a range of services, including health screenings, vaccinations, and educational programs. These programs are crucial for early detection and management of COPD and other chronic diseases. The effectiveness of these programs depends on their accessibility, affordability, and cultural sensitivity. Are they reaching the populations most at risk?

Local hospitals and clinics also contribute to community health. Access to quality healthcare, including specialized pulmonology services, is essential for managing COPD. The availability of rehabilitation programs, such as pulmonary rehabilitation, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room for the Soul**

The natural beauty of 28379 offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, which is crucial for both physical and mental health. The Hitchcock Creek Trail, as mentioned earlier, is a prime example. Walking, biking, and simply enjoying the outdoors can improve lung function and reduce stress.

However, access to these resources is not always equal. The availability of safe and accessible walking trails, parks, and recreational facilities is a key factor. The promotion of outdoor activities, such as community walks and bike rides, can encourage physical activity and foster a sense of community.

**The Vignettes: Scenes from the Life of 28379**

Let's paint a few scenes, snapshots of life in 28379, to bring the data to life:

* **Scene 1: The Porch Swing.** The late afternoon sun casts long shadows across Mrs. Eleanor’s porch. She’s 78, a Rockingham native, and a familiar figure in her neighborhood. Her COPD makes breathing a constant effort, but she still manages to sit on her porch swing, watching the world go by. The air, thick with the scent of honeysuckle, sometimes triggers a cough. She’s grateful for the home health nurse who visits regularly, and the community garden where she can get fresh vegetables. But she worries about the rising cost of her medications and the lack of reliable transportation to her doctor’s appointments.

* **Scene 2: The Community Center.** The Rockingham Community Center buzzes with activity. A group of seniors are participating in a gentle exercise class, led by a friendly instructor. The class is designed to improve lung function and build strength. A local pharmacist is giving a presentation on COPD management, answering questions and providing valuable information. This is a safe space, a place of connection and support, a lifeline for many.

* **Scene 3: The Grocery Store.** In the produce aisle of the local grocery store, Maria, a young mother, carefully selects fresh fruits and vegetables. She knows the importance of a healthy diet for her family, especially her father, who struggles with COPD. She's concerned about the affordability of healthy food options and the lack of readily available information about COPD prevention.

**The COPD Score: Putting it All Together**

Assessing community health is a complex undertaking. There's no single number that can capture the full picture. However, we can use the factors discussed above to create a subjective "COPD Score" for 28379, a way of understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the community's health landscape.

**Positive Factors:**

* **Strong sense of community:** A close-knit community can provide social support and encourage healthy behaviors.
* **Presence of local wellness programs:** The Richmond County Health Department and local clinics offer valuable services.
* **Outdoor recreation opportunities:** The Hitchcock Creek Trail and other green spaces provide opportunities for physical activity.
* **Ongoing revitalization efforts:** Efforts to improve the downtown area and attract investment can improve the overall quality of life.

**Negative Factors:**

* **Aging population:** The high percentage of older adults increases the risk of COPD.
* **Socioeconomic disparities:** Lower median household income can limit access to healthcare and healthy food options.
* **Potential for substandard housing:** Poor housing conditions can exacerbate respiratory problems.
* **Historical industries:** Exposure to airborne irritants in past workplaces may have contributed to COPD.
* **Limited transportation options:** Can restrict access to healthcare and social interaction.

**Overall, the COPD Score for 28379 is a mixed bag.** The community's strong sense of connection and the presence of local wellness programs are positive factors. However, the aging population, socioeconomic disparities, and potential for substandard housing present significant challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Expand access to affordable healthcare:** This includes increasing the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, and providing financial assistance for medications.
* **Improve housing quality:** Implement programs to address substandard housing conditions, including mold remediation and improved ventilation.
* **Promote healthy lifestyles:** Increase awareness of COPD prevention and management through educational campaigns, community events, and accessible resources.
* **Enhance transportation options:** Improve public transportation and provide transportation assistance for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
* **Support community-based initiatives:** Encourage the development of community gardens, farmers' markets, and other programs that promote healthy eating and physical activity.
* **Foster social connections:** Create opportunities for social interaction, such as senior centers, support groups, and community events.
* **Advocate for policies that support community health:** This includes advocating for policies that address socioeconomic disparities and improve access to healthcare.

**The Future of Breath in 28379**

The fight against COPD in 28379 is an ongoing effort. It requires a collaborative approach, involving healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and, most importantly, the residents themselves. By understanding the unique challenges and strengths of this community, we can work together to create a healthier future, where everyone can breathe easier and live a fuller life. The air in Rockingham may still be thick with humidity, but with the right interventions, it can also be filled with the promise of a healthier, more vibrant future for all.