The People Score for the COPD Score in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 87.72 percent of the residents in 28804 has some form of health insurance. 34.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 28804 would have to travel an average of 4.19 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Memorial Mission Hospital And Asheville Surgery Ce. In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,857 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina
COPD Score | 80 |
---|---|
People Score | 33 |
Provider Score | 94 |
Hospital Score | 56 |
Travel Score | 56 |
28804 | Asheville | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 47.36 | 48.61 | 51.42 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 24.84 | 18.80 | 14.69 |
Medicare | 24.25 | 20.52 | 18.16 |
Medicaid | 12.54 | 15.04 | 17.74 |
TRICARE | 2.43 | 2.12 | 4.27 |
VA | 50.65 | 54.06 | 53.01 |
Percent Insured in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
28804 | Asheville | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 93.57 | 96.13 | 94.50 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 84.48 | 82.56 | 84.37 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 99.92 | 99.44 |
## The Breath of the Blue Ridge: Unpacking the COPD Score in Asheville's 28804
The air hangs crisp and clean in Asheville, North Carolina, a town nestled in the embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains. But beneath the postcard-perfect veneer, a silent struggle unfolds, a battle fought with every breath. We're talking about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, and its impact on the community within the 28804 ZIP code. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a community health story, woven into the fabric of daily life, influenced by everything from the neighborhood vibe to the availability of local wellness programs.
This isn't a clinical report; it's a deep dive into the lived experience. We're not just looking at numbers; we're painting a picture of the people, the places, and the pathways to a healthier future in 28804. Think of this as a "COPD Score" – not a formal metric, but a holistic understanding of the factors that contribute to respiratory health, and how the community can breathe easier.
**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Breath of the Valley**
28804 is a diverse ZIP code, a microcosm of Asheville itself. It stretches from the vibrant, bustling downtown core, where the scent of artisan coffee mingles with the exhaust of passing cars, to the quieter residential streets that climb the hillsides. The demographic makeup is a tapestry of ages, incomes, and backgrounds. You'll find young professionals drawn to the creative energy, families putting down roots, and long-time residents who’ve witnessed the city's evolution.
Understanding the demographic landscape is crucial. The age of the population plays a significant role. As people age, the risk of COPD increases. The economic realities also matter. Access to healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing – all crucial for managing respiratory conditions – can be impacted by income disparities.
Imagine Mrs. Rodriguez, a retired seamstress who has lived in the same house in West Asheville for over 40 years. The air quality in her neighborhood, particularly near the river, can sometimes be a concern. The cost of her medications and the distance to her doctor's appointments add another layer of complexity.
Then there's young David, a musician who recently moved to the area. He's a smoker, drawn to the social scene, and unaware of the long-term implications of his habit. His lifestyle, the pressure of his profession, and his access to information about quitting all shape his respiratory health.
These are just two snapshots, but they represent the complex interplay of factors that influence the COPD Score in 28804.
**Places to Live: Where the Air Matters**
The physical environment profoundly impacts respiratory health. The location of homes, the proximity to traffic, and the presence of environmental hazards all contribute to the air quality a resident breathes daily.
Consider the homes nestled along busy Patton Avenue. The constant stream of cars, trucks, and buses can contribute to higher levels of particulate matter, a known trigger for COPD exacerbations. The older housing stock in some areas might also harbor mold and other allergens, adding another layer of challenge.
Contrast this with the homes perched on the slopes of the mountains, where the air is often cleaner and fresher. The presence of green spaces and parks, like Carrier Park, offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and can improve air quality.
The availability of affordable, well-maintained housing is another critical factor. Overcrowding and inadequate ventilation can exacerbate respiratory problems. Imagine a family living in a cramped apartment with poor air circulation – the perfect breeding ground for allergens and irritants.
The city's ongoing efforts to improve air quality, through initiatives like promoting public transportation and investing in green infrastructure, are crucial for improving the COPD Score across 28804.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community and Connection**
The social fabric of a community can significantly impact health outcomes. A strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other and support each other, can create a safety net for those struggling with chronic conditions.
Picture the annual block party in West Asheville, where neighbors gather to share food, music, and laughter. This kind of social connection can reduce stress and promote a sense of belonging, which can positively impact overall health.
Conversely, social isolation and loneliness can be detrimental. For individuals with COPD, who may already feel limited by their condition, social isolation can worsen their symptoms and lead to depression.
The presence of community centers, senior centers, and support groups plays a vital role in fostering connection and providing resources. These spaces offer opportunities for education, support, and social interaction, helping individuals manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
**Local Wellness Programs: Breathing Easier Together**
Asheville is known for its wellness culture, and this extends to the availability of programs that support respiratory health.
Imagine a yoga class specifically designed for people with COPD, held in a park overlooking the mountains. The gentle movements and controlled breathing exercises can help improve lung function and reduce stress.
Consider the support groups offered by local hospitals and clinics. These groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand their challenges.
The availability of smoking cessation programs is also crucial. These programs provide the support and resources needed to quit smoking, the leading cause of COPD.
The effectiveness of these programs depends on their accessibility and affordability. Reaching underserved populations, such as low-income individuals and those living in rural areas, is essential.
**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Blue Ridge**
Asheville's stunning natural environment offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, which can be both beneficial and challenging for individuals with COPD.
Imagine a gentle hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs. The fresh air and physical activity can improve lung function and boost overall well-being.
However, the altitude and the potential for air pollution can also pose challenges. Individuals with COPD need to be mindful of their limitations and take precautions, such as pacing themselves and using their medications as prescribed.
The availability of accessible trails and parks is crucial. Ensuring that these spaces are well-maintained and offer amenities like benches and restrooms can make outdoor recreation more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.
**The COPD Score: A Call to Action**
The "COPD Score" in 28804 is not a fixed number; it's a dynamic reflection of the community's health and well-being. It's a call to action, a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a healthier future.
This means:
* **Prioritizing air quality:** Supporting initiatives that reduce pollution and promote clean air.
* **Expanding access to healthcare:** Ensuring that everyone has access to affordable and quality medical care, including COPD diagnosis and treatment.
* **Investing in community resources:** Supporting local wellness programs, community centers, and support groups.
* **Promoting healthy lifestyles:** Encouraging smoking cessation, healthy eating, and regular physical activity.
* **Fostering social connection:** Creating a sense of community where people feel supported and connected.
The journey to a healthier 28804 is a collective one. By understanding the complexities of the "COPD Score," we can work together to ensure that everyone in this beautiful corner of the Blue Ridge Mountains can breathe easier and live a full and vibrant life. The air is waiting to be filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the simple joy of a deep, satisfying breath.
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