The People Score for the COPD Score in 43451, Portage, Ohio is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 99.02 percent of the residents in 43451 has some form of health insurance. 26.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.50 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 43451 would have to travel an average of 4.60 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wood County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 832 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43451, Portage, Ohio.
Health Scores in 43451, Portage, Ohio
COPD Score | 80 |
---|---|
People Score | 84 |
Provider Score | 36 |
Hospital Score | 64 |
Travel Score | 55 |
43451 | Portage | Ohio | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 76.94 | 76.94 | 58.11 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 7.03 | 7.03 | 11.73 |
Medicare | 20.28 | 20.28 | 18.41 |
Medicaid | 7.52 | 7.52 | 20.26 |
TRICARE | 0.49 | 0.49 | 1.64 |
VA | 47.67 | 47.67 | 52.15 |
Percent Insured in 43451, Portage, Ohio
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
43451 | Portage | Ohio | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 95.37 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 98.32 | 98.32 | 91.32 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.50 |
## The Lungs of Portage: Unpacking the COPD Score in 43451
The wind whips off the Maumee River, carrying the scent of damp earth and the distant promise of a good perch catch. This is Portage, Ohio, ZIP code 43451, a community woven with the threads of rural charm, industrial heritage, and a quiet determination to thrive. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic landscape, like a hidden current, flows the reality of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It's a condition that often whispers its presence, a silent thief stealing breath and vitality. Understanding the COPD score in 43451 isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding the community's health, its challenges, and its potential for a healthier future.
The COPD score, in this context, is a composite measure. It's not a single, easily quantifiable figure, but rather an assessment built on a complex interplay of factors that contribute to respiratory health. It considers everything from the prevalence of smoking and air quality to access to healthcare and the availability of resources that promote a healthy lifestyle. It's a snapshot of the community's respiratory well-being, a vital sign for the lungs of Portage.
**Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**
Portage, like many small towns, is a tapestry woven with the threads of generations. The 2020 census paints a picture of a community that's predominantly white, with a median age hovering around 40. Families are the backbone of the community, with a significant percentage of households having children. This demographic makeup is crucial to understanding the COPD score.
The presence of a significant older population, a demographic more susceptible to COPD, is a key factor. Years of exposure to environmental factors and lifestyle choices can take their toll. However, the younger generation, the children playing in the parks and the teenagers navigating their futures, also contribute to the score. Their exposure to secondhand smoke, the quality of the air they breathe, and the habits they develop now will impact their respiratory health for years to come.
**Places to Live: From Quiet Streets to the Shadow of Industry**
The landscape of 43451 is a blend of residential pockets and the echoes of industry. Homes range from well-maintained bungalows on tree-lined streets to older, more modest dwellings. The proximity to industrial areas, while providing jobs and economic stability, also introduces potential challenges. Air quality, a crucial component of the COPD score, can be affected by industrial emissions.
Imagine a crisp autumn morning. The air is still, and the sun casts long shadows across the lawns. The scent of burning leaves mixes with the fainter, almost imperceptible, aroma of something else… something that hints at the nearby factories. This subtle presence, this constant undercurrent of potential air pollution, can subtly impact respiratory health over time.
Then there are the homes themselves. Some are well-insulated, with modern heating and cooling systems. Others, perhaps older, might have less efficient ventilation, potentially trapping indoor pollutants like dust mites and mold spores, exacerbating respiratory issues. The quality of housing, therefore, plays a significant role in the overall COPD score.
**The Vibe: Community Spirit and the Rhythm of Life**
The "neighborhood vibe" is a powerful, often intangible, element that significantly influences community health. In Portage, this vibe is a blend of neighborly warmth, a strong sense of community pride, and a quiet resilience. There's a feeling of connection, a shared understanding forged through generations of living side-by-side.
Picture the annual Portage Day celebration. The park is alive with laughter, the aroma of grilling burgers fills the air, and children chase each other through the sprinklers. This sense of community, this feeling of belonging, is a protective factor. It encourages social connections, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of well-being, all of which can indirectly benefit respiratory health.
However, the vibe can also be influenced by challenges. Economic hardship, lack of access to resources, and social isolation can all contribute to poorer health outcomes. The COPD score reflects these subtle nuances, the interplay of positive and negative influences that shape the community's respiratory well-being.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Deep in the Heart of Nature**
Fortunately, 43451 offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. The proximity to the Maumee River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the water's edge. Parks and green spaces offer places for walking, running, and simply breathing in the fresh air.
Imagine a brisk morning walk along the Portage Riverwalk. The sun is just peeking over the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues. The air is clean and crisp, carrying the scent of the river and the rustling leaves. This access to nature, this opportunity to exercise and breathe deeply, is a powerful antidote to the challenges of COPD. It strengthens the lungs, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts overall well-being.
However, access to these recreational opportunities isn't always equal. Factors like transportation, financial constraints, and physical limitations can create barriers. The COPD score considers these disparities, recognizing that a healthy community is one where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation.
**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**
The presence of local wellness programs is a crucial factor in improving the COPD score. These programs, often spearheaded by local healthcare providers, community organizations, and even dedicated volunteers, offer a range of services designed to promote respiratory health.
Imagine a community health fair held at the Portage Public Library. Healthcare professionals offer free lung function screenings, educational materials on smoking cessation, and demonstrations on proper inhaler techniques. These programs, these seeds of change, are vital. They empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their respiratory health.
The effectiveness of these programs depends on several factors: accessibility, affordability, and community engagement. Are the programs reaching the people who need them most? Are they tailored to the specific needs of the community? The COPD score considers these factors, recognizing that effective wellness programs are essential for improving respiratory health.
**Smoking Prevalence: The Elephant in the Room**
Smoking is a significant contributor to COPD. The prevalence of smoking in 43451, as in any community, has a direct impact on the COPD score. It's a complex issue, influenced by factors like socioeconomic status, education levels, and cultural norms.
Imagine a group of friends gathered outside a local diner, sharing cigarettes and conversation. This scene, while perhaps commonplace, represents a significant challenge. Smoking damages the lungs, increasing the risk of COPD and other respiratory illnesses.
Addressing smoking prevalence requires a multi-pronged approach: education, cessation programs, and policy interventions. The COPD score reflects the community's efforts to tackle this challenge, recognizing that reducing smoking rates is essential for improving respiratory health.
**Access to Healthcare: Navigating the System**
Access to quality healthcare is another critical component of the COPD score. This includes access to primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and respiratory therapists. It also includes access to affordable medications and diagnostic testing.
Imagine a resident of 43451 experiencing shortness of breath. They need prompt access to medical care to diagnose and manage their condition. The COPD score reflects the community's ability to provide this access, recognizing that timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing COPD.
Challenges to healthcare access can include factors like insurance coverage, transportation limitations, and a shortage of healthcare providers. The COPD score considers these challenges, recognizing that a healthy community is one where everyone has access to the care they need.
**Air Quality: A Breath of Fresh Air?**
Air quality is a significant factor influencing respiratory health. The presence of pollutants like particulate matter and ozone can irritate the lungs and exacerbate COPD symptoms.
Imagine a hazy summer day, the air thick with pollutants. This scene highlights the importance of monitoring air quality and taking steps to reduce pollution. The COPD score reflects the community's efforts to address air quality issues, recognizing that clean air is essential for respiratory health.
This includes measures like monitoring industrial emissions, promoting energy-efficient practices, and advocating for clean air policies.
**The Road Ahead: A Community's Commitment**
The COPD score in 43451 is not a fixed number. It's a dynamic measure, constantly evolving based on the interplay of various factors. Improving the score requires a community-wide effort, a commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, addressing environmental challenges, and ensuring access to quality healthcare.
This means supporting local wellness programs, promoting smoking cessation, advocating for clean air policies, and fostering a strong sense of community. It means working together to create a Portage where everyone can breathe freely and live a long, healthy life.
The journey to a healthier Portage is ongoing. It requires the dedication of individuals, the collaboration of organizations, and the unwavering commitment of the community. By understanding the COPD score, by recognizing the challenges and celebrating the successes, 43451 can build a future where the lungs of Portage are strong, healthy, and thriving.
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