45716, Buchtel, Ohio COPD Score People Score

The People Score for the COPD Score in 45716, Buchtel, Ohio is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.94 percent of the residents in 45716 has some form of health insurance. 60.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.18 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 45716 would have to travel an average of 9.69 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ohiohealth O'Bleness Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,315 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 45716, Buchtel, Ohio.

## The Buchtel Breath: Scoring Community Health in 45716

The wind whips off the rolling hills, carrying the scent of damp earth and distant coal smoke. In Buchtel, Ohio, ZIP code 45716, the air itself whispers tales of a hard-working past, a resilient present, and a future still being written. This isn't a story of sweeping pronouncements, but a granular examination, a deep dive into the community health of a place where the spirit of self-reliance runs deep. We're not just talking numbers; we're talking breaths – the shallow ones, the labored ones, and the ones that, with a little help, can deepen and strengthen. We're scoring the COPD Score, not in a clinical sense, but as a metaphor for the community's ability to breathe freely, to thrive.

**Demographics: The Threads of the Tapestry**

Buchtel, tucked into the Appalachian foothills, is a place where generations have known each other, where family ties are strong as the gnarled roots of the ancient oaks that dot the landscape. The demographic profile of 45716 paints a picture of a community grappling with the realities of rural America. The median age leans towards the older side, a reflection of the outmigration of young people seeking opportunities beyond the town limits. The population is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of residents identifying as Black or of other ethnicities. The economic landscape is marked by a history of coal mining, leaving behind both a legacy of hard work and a lingering impact on the health of its residents. The unemployment rate, while fluctuating, often hovers above the state average, and a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line. This economic reality impacts every facet of community health, from access to nutritious food to the ability to afford quality healthcare.

The houses themselves tell a story. Some are well-maintained, lovingly tended to, reflecting pride of ownership. Others show the wear and tear of time, the paint peeling, the porches sagging, testaments to the financial strains faced by many families. The housing stock is a mix, from modest single-family homes to older, multi-unit dwellings. The availability of affordable housing is a crucial factor in community health, providing a stable foundation for families to build their lives.

**Places to Live: More Than Just a Roof Over Your Head**

Driving through Buchtel, you see the remnants of its industrial past. The skeletal remains of the old coal tipples stand as silent sentinels, reminders of a time when the town pulsed with the rhythm of industry. The streets, lined with modest homes, speak of a quiet resilience.

Imagine a porch swing creaking gently on a warm summer evening. The scent of freshly mown grass mingles with the aroma of a neighbor's barbecue. This is the essence of Buchtel – a place where community is built on shared experiences, where neighbors look out for each other.

The availability of quality housing is a significant factor. The condition of homes, the presence of lead paint, and the availability of safe, affordable housing all contribute to the overall health of the community. Are there programs in place to help homeowners maintain their properties? Are there initiatives to address the issue of lead paint, a silent threat to the health of children? These are questions that need to be asked, and answered.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of the Place**

The "vibe" of a community is intangible, yet profoundly impactful. It's the feeling you get when you walk down the street, the interactions you have with your neighbors, the sense of belonging. In Buchtel, the neighborhood vibe is a complex tapestry woven from threads of resilience, a deep-seated sense of community, and a quiet determination to overcome challenges.

The local businesses, though few, are crucial. The corner store, the gas station, the small diner – these are the hubs of community life, places where people gather, share stories, and support each other. The presence of these businesses, their vitality, and their commitment to the community are indicators of its health.

Think of the local fire department, the volunteer firefighters who risk their lives to protect their neighbors. Their dedication is a testament to the community's spirit of selflessness. The local churches, too, play a vital role, providing not only spiritual guidance but also social support and resources for those in need.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Buchtel: Breathing Room for Change**

The pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in Buchtel is a challenge, but not an insurmountable one. The prevalence of chronic diseases, often linked to lifestyle factors, highlights the need for proactive interventions. The rate of smoking, for example, is likely higher than the state average, a legacy of the past and a contributing factor to respiratory illnesses. The availability of healthy food options, the opportunities for physical activity, and the access to healthcare are all critical components of a healthy lifestyle.

The local school system plays a crucial role. The quality of education, the availability of extracurricular activities, and the promotion of healthy habits within the school environment all contribute to the well-being of the community's children. Are there programs in place to teach children about nutrition and exercise? Are there opportunities for them to participate in sports and other physical activities?

**Outdoor Recreation: The Healing Power of Nature**

Despite the challenges, Buchtel is blessed with natural beauty. The rolling hills, the forests, and the nearby waterways offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of community health. Hiking trails, fishing spots, and parks provide spaces for people to connect with nature, to exercise, and to relieve stress.

Imagine a crisp autumn day, the leaves ablaze with color. A family is hiking a local trail, the children laughing as they scramble over fallen logs. The fresh air, the exercise, the connection with nature – these are powerful tools for promoting physical and mental well-being.

The availability of these recreational opportunities, their accessibility, and their safety are all important factors. Are the trails well-maintained? Are there programs to encourage people to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the area?

**Local Wellness Programs: The Seeds of Change**

The presence of local wellness programs is a crucial indicator of community health. These programs, whether offered by the local health department, the school system, or community organizations, provide vital resources and support for residents.

Imagine a community health fair, a vibrant event where residents can learn about healthy eating, exercise, and disease prevention. Local healthcare providers are on hand to offer screenings and answer questions. This is the essence of a community committed to its own well-being.

The effectiveness of these programs, their accessibility, and their ability to reach the most vulnerable populations are all important factors. Are there programs to help people quit smoking? Are there initiatives to address the issue of food insecurity? Are there resources available to support people with chronic diseases?

**Scoring the COPD Score: A Work in Progress**

So, what is the COPD Score for Buchtel, Ohio, in 2024? It's not a simple number. It's a complex assessment, a snapshot of a community grappling with challenges while striving for a healthier future.

The economic realities, the aging population, and the legacy of industrial pollution present significant obstacles. The prevalence of chronic diseases, the limited access to healthcare, and the need for improved infrastructure are all factors that weigh down the score.

However, there are also signs of hope. The strong sense of community, the resilience of its residents, and the growing awareness of the importance of healthy lifestyles are all positive indicators. The presence of local wellness programs, the opportunities for outdoor recreation, and the dedication of community leaders are all seeds of change.

The COPD Score for Buchtel is a work in progress. It's a score that can be improved, a score that can be raised with concerted effort, with investment in its people, and with a commitment to building a healthier future. It's a score that reflects the community's ability to breathe freely, to thrive, and to write its own story of resilience and renewal. The wind may still carry the scent of coal smoke, but with each breath, with each step forward, Buchtel is working to clear the air, to deepen its breath, and to build a community where everyone can live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. The journey won't be easy, but the spirit of Buchtel, its unwavering determination, will carry it through.