28458, Rose Hill, North Carolina COPD Score People Score

The People Score for the COPD Score in 28458, Rose Hill, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.55 percent of the residents in 28458 has some form of health insurance. 45.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.62 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28458 would have to travel an average of 10.93 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Vidant Duplin Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 292 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28458, Rose Hill, North Carolina.

## The Breath of Rose Hill: Decoding the COPD Score in 28458

The air hangs thick and humid in Rose Hill, North Carolina, a scent of sweet tea roses mingling with the earthy aroma of tobacco fields. This is the heart of Duplin County, a place where generations have tilled the soil, built families, and lived a life intrinsically tied to the land. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic existence lies a challenge, a silent adversary that impacts the very breath of its residents: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD.

This isn’t just a medical statistic; it's a story etched into the faces of the community, a narrative woven into the fabric of everyday life. We're not talking about a generic “COPD Score” here. We’re diving deep into the heart of 28458, Rose Hill, to understand the forces at play, the vulnerabilities, and the opportunities to build a healthier future, one breath at a time.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Resilience**

Rose Hill, a town of roughly 1,600 souls, is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse heritage. The majority of the population is white, with a significant African American community that has deep roots in the area. The median age hovers around 40, reflecting a community where families often stay, building multi-generational connections.

But this isn't just a demographic snapshot. It's a living, breathing portrait of resilience. Many residents work in agriculture, the lifeblood of Duplin County, tending to the vast fields of tobacco, sweet potatoes, and soybeans. Others find employment in the local poultry processing plants, a major economic driver. The work is often physically demanding, the hours long, and the financial margins tight.

This economic reality, coupled with the historical legacy of tobacco farming, creates a complex interplay of factors that contribute to the prevalence of COPD. The constant exposure to dust, chemicals, and smoke in agricultural settings, combined with the long-standing tradition of smoking, has left its mark on the lungs of many residents.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Place**

Imagine a Saturday morning in Rose Hill. The sun, a fiery orb in the Carolina sky, casts long shadows across the quiet streets. The aroma of bacon and coffee spills from open windows, mingling with the faint scent of freshly cut grass. Children, their laughter echoing through the air, chase each other across lawns, their energy infectious.

The neighborhood vibe in Rose Hill is one of close-knit community. Neighbors know each other, they wave from their porches, and they gather at the local Piggly Wiggly to catch up on the week's happenings. There's a sense of belonging, a shared history, and a deep-rooted connection to the land.

But the sense of community also carries a weight. The burden of COPD is often shared, a silent understanding between those who struggle to breathe. You might see Mrs. Johnson, a pillar of the community, sitting on her porch, her oxygen tank close at hand, watching the world go by. Or you might encounter Mr. Davis, his face etched with the weariness of a life spent working the fields, his breath labored with each step.

This is not a place of isolation. It's a place where people care, where they support each other, and where they strive to live their lives to the fullest, despite the challenges they face.

**Places to Live: A Spectrum of Homes and Histories**

The housing landscape in Rose Hill reflects the community's history and its evolving needs. You'll find charming, well-maintained older homes with wide front porches, remnants of a bygone era. These homes often boast sprawling yards, perfect for gardening and outdoor gatherings.

Then there are the newer developments, offering more modern amenities and catering to a growing population. These homes provide a sense of comfort and security, a place to raise families and build new memories.

But the housing market also reflects the economic realities of the area. Affordable housing options are crucial, especially for those on fixed incomes or facing medical expenses. The availability of accessible and well-maintained homes is a critical factor in promoting community health.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Rose Hill: Challenges and Opportunities**

The concept of a "healthy lifestyle" in Rose Hill is a complex one, shaped by both tradition and the changing times. The legacy of tobacco farming has left a lasting impact, with smoking rates historically high. Access to fresh, healthy food can also be a challenge, with limited grocery store options and a reliance on convenience stores.

However, there's a growing awareness of the importance of healthy choices. The local community is increasingly embracing opportunities to improve their well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty**

The natural beauty of Duplin County offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Black River, a winding waterway teeming with wildlife, provides a perfect setting for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The vast open spaces surrounding Rose Hill are ideal for hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the fresh air.

Imagine a crisp autumn afternoon. The leaves are ablaze with color, and the air is filled with the scent of pine. A group of friends and family gather for a hike along a scenic trail, their laughter echoing through the woods. This is the kind of connection with nature that can nourish the soul and promote physical well-being.

The challenge lies in making these opportunities accessible to everyone. Creating well-maintained trails, providing access to equipment, and promoting outdoor activities can help residents embrace a more active and healthy lifestyle.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The community is not standing still. There are seeds of change sprouting, initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of Rose Hill residents.

The local health department plays a crucial role, providing vital services and resources. They offer educational programs on COPD prevention and management, smoking cessation support, and access to screenings and medical care.

Local churches and community organizations are also stepping up, organizing health fairs, providing access to healthy food options, and promoting physical activity. These initiatives are often driven by passionate individuals who are deeply committed to the well-being of their neighbors.

Imagine a community health fair held in the town square. Vendors offer free health screenings, educational materials, and demonstrations of healthy cooking techniques. Children participate in fun fitness activities, and the air is filled with a sense of hope and optimism.

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

The "COPD Score" in 28458 is not just a number; it's a reflection of the complex interplay of factors that shape the health of this community. It's a call to action, a challenge to address the vulnerabilities and build a healthier future.

Here's what needs to happen:

* **Strengthening Prevention Efforts:** Continue to promote smoking cessation programs, educate residents about the risks of COPD, and encourage early detection through screenings.
* **Improving Access to Healthcare:** Ensure that residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare, including specialized COPD care and pulmonary rehabilitation services.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Support initiatives that promote healthy eating, physical activity, and access to fresh, affordable food.
* **Empowering the Community:** Engage residents in the process of improving their own health. Encourage community-based programs and initiatives that address the specific needs of the population.
* **Investing in Infrastructure:** Improve access to outdoor recreation opportunities, such as parks, trails, and recreational facilities.
* **Addressing Social Determinants of Health:** Recognize and address the social and economic factors that contribute to poor health outcomes, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited access to resources.

**The Future of Breath in Rose Hill**

The future of Rose Hill is not predetermined. It's being written every day, by the actions of its residents, the commitment of its leaders, and the support of its community.

Imagine a future where the air in Rose Hill is cleaner, where smoking rates are lower, and where residents have access to the resources they need to live long, healthy lives. Imagine a community where the burden of COPD is lessened, where people can breathe freely, and where the vibrant spirit of Rose Hill continues to thrive.

This is not just a dream; it's a goal within reach. By working together, by embracing the challenges, and by celebrating the resilience of the community, Rose Hill can build a healthier future, one breath at a time. The COPD score, in this context, becomes not a measure of defeat, but a compass, guiding the community toward a future where the breath of life is celebrated, protected, and shared by all.