COPD Score

24265, Keokee, Virginia COPD Score People Score

Average Rating: 0.0 / 5 stars

0 Reviews

Health Scores

People Score in 24265, Keokee, Virginia

The People Score for the COPD Score in 24265, Keokee, Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.68 percent of the residents in 24265 has some form of health insurance. 79.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.84 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 24265 would have to travel an average of 7.31 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Lee County Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,015 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 24265, Keokee, Virginia.

Health Scores in 24265, Keokee, Virginia

COPD Score 57
People Score 30
Provider Score 95
Hospital Score 41
Travel Score 36

Insurance Types

24265 Keokee Virginia
Employer Insurance 14.84 14.84 58.63
Direct Purchase Insurance 37.83 37.83 12.97
Medicare 52.28 52.28 16.69
Medicaid 32.50 32.50 12.99
TRICARE 0.00 0.00 7.85
VA 62.87 62.87 52.24

Percent Insured in 24265, Keokee, Virginia

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

24265 Keokee Virginia
Under 19 100.00 100.00 95.12
Adults (19-64 years) 85.92 85.92 89.13
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 100.00 99.04

People Score Review of 24265, Keokee, Virginia

## The Keokee Kick: Breathing Easy and Building a Better 24265

The wind whispers through the rhododendrons clinging to the steep slopes surrounding Keokee, Virginia (ZIP code 24265). It carries the scent of pine and damp earth, a fragrance that has defined this corner of Southwest Virginia for generations. But for some residents, that simple act of breathing – of drawing in the crisp mountain air – is a daily struggle. We're talking about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and in a community like Keokee, understanding its impact on community health is vital. This isn't just about medical charts and statistics; it's about the very fabric of life in 24265, the people who call it home, and the steps we can take to help them breathe easier and live fuller lives.

**The Mountain's Breath: Understanding the Challenge**

Keokee, nestled in the heart of Lee County, is a place of rugged beauty and close-knit communities. The population, hovering around 1,000 souls, is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of residents over 65. This demographic profile, coupled with a history of coal mining and related industries, paints a picture where COPD prevalence might be higher than the national average. Exposure to coal dust, smoke from wood-burning stoves, and the simple act of aging all contribute to the risk.

Imagine Mrs. Evelyn, her hands gnarled from years of tending her garden, pausing mid-row, winded by the effort. Or Mr. Silas, a retired miner, leaning against his porch rail, the rhythmic wheeze a constant companion. These aren't just anecdotes; they are the realities of life for many in Keokee. COPD steals breath, limits mobility, and casts a long shadow over daily activities.

**Mapping the Terrain: Demographics and the Landscape of Health**

Beyond the anecdotal, we need to delve deeper. While specific COPD prevalence data for 24265 might be difficult to pinpoint, we can use available data to understand the broader context. The aging population, coupled with potential environmental factors like air quality influenced by seasonal wood-burning and the legacy of industrial activity, creates a fertile ground for COPD.

The median household income in Keokee is likely lower than the national average. This can translate into limited access to quality healthcare, including preventative care and specialized pulmonary services. Transportation can also be a barrier, with residents needing to travel to larger towns like Pennington Gap or Norton for advanced medical treatments.

The physical landscape itself presents challenges. The mountainous terrain, while beautiful, can make even simple errands a strenuous undertaking for someone with limited lung capacity. Think of the climb to the local grocery store, the steep driveway, or the walk to visit a neighbor.

**The Heart of the Community: Places to Live and the Neighborhood Vibe**

Keokee is a place where neighbors help neighbors. The community spirit is palpable, evident in the annual festivals, the church gatherings, and the shared sense of belonging. Homes range from modest single-family dwellings to charming, well-maintained properties. The "neighborhood vibe" is one of quiet resilience, a place where people value their independence and the simple pleasures of life.

Consider the weathered porch swings, the scent of freshly baked bread wafting from open windows, and the friendly waves exchanged on the winding roads. This is a place where people know each other, where families have deep roots, and where the community's well-being is intrinsically linked to the health of its individual members.

**Breathing Easier: The Role of Healthy Lifestyle in Keokee**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle is paramount in mitigating the impact of COPD. This means addressing both preventative measures and strategies for managing the disease.

* **Smoking Cessation:** This is the single most important step. The local health clinic, in partnership with the county health department, should actively promote smoking cessation programs. This could include individual counseling, support groups, and access to nicotine replacement therapies.
* **Air Quality Awareness:** Educating residents about the impact of air quality on respiratory health is crucial. This could involve providing information about the dangers of wood-burning stoves, especially during periods of poor air circulation, and promoting cleaner heating alternatives.
* **Healthy Diet and Exercise:** Encouraging a balanced diet and regular physical activity can improve overall health and lung function. This is where the community can play a vital role.

**The Great Outdoors: Outdoor Recreation and the Breath of Fresh Air**

Keokee's natural beauty offers a unique opportunity to promote healthy living. The surrounding mountains and forests provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

* **Hiking and Walking Trails:** Developing accessible walking trails, even short, gentle paths, would be a boon. Imagine a well-maintained trail around the local park, designed with benches and resting points to accommodate individuals with limited mobility.
* **Community Gardens:** Creating a community garden would not only provide access to fresh, healthy produce but also offer a social outlet and a chance to connect with nature.
* **Outdoor Exercise Programs:** Organizing group walks, tai chi classes, or gentle yoga sessions in the local park would provide a supportive environment for exercise.

**Wellness Programs: Building a Network of Support**

The success of any community health initiative hinges on the availability of local wellness programs.

* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Partnering with hospitals or healthcare providers in nearby towns to offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs is essential. These programs provide education, exercise, and support to individuals with COPD.
* **Support Groups:** Establishing a local COPD support group would provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and connect with others facing similar challenges.
* **Home Healthcare:** Expanding access to home healthcare services can provide crucial support for individuals who are unable to leave their homes. This could include respiratory therapists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who can provide in-home care and education.
* **Education and Awareness Campaigns:** The local health clinic, in collaboration with community organizations, should conduct regular educational campaigns to raise awareness about COPD, its symptoms, and available resources.

**The Keokee Kick: A Call to Action**

Improving community health in 24265 requires a multi-pronged approach, a "Keokee Kick" that energizes the community to take action.

* **Collaboration is Key:** The local health clinic, the county health department, community organizations, and local businesses must work together to develop and implement effective programs.
* **Leveraging Resources:** Seek out funding opportunities from state and federal agencies to support community health initiatives.
* **Empowering Residents:** Involve residents in the planning and implementation of programs. Their input and lived experiences are invaluable.
* **Celebrating Success:** Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of individuals and the community as a whole. This fosters a sense of pride and encourages continued participation.

**The Future of 24265: Breathing Deep and Living Well**

The challenges are real, but the potential for positive change is even greater. By focusing on prevention, providing access to quality healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering a strong sense of community, we can help the residents of Keokee breathe easier and live fuller lives.

Imagine Mrs. Evelyn, enjoying her garden with renewed vigor, her breath steady and strong. Picture Mr. Silas, taking a leisurely stroll on a newly created walking trail, the mountain air filling his lungs with ease. This is the vision, the promise of a healthier, more vibrant 24265. It's a vision worth fighting for, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of community. The Keokee Kick is about more than just surviving; it's about thriving, about embracing the beauty of the mountains, and about breathing deep and living well, together.

Reviews

Recent Reviews

No reviews yet.

Leave a review

Health Scores Near 24265, Keokee, Virginia

You may also like

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Arthritis Score
Arthritis Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Hypertension Score
Hypertension Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Type 2 Diabetes Score
Type 2 Diabetes Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Alzheimers Score
Alzheimers Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Prostate Cancer Score
Prostate Cancer Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

24265, Keokee, Virginia
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 24265: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 1,274

Health Scores in 24265, Keokee, Virginia