The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 36619, Mobile, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 82.44 percent of the residents in 36619 has some form of health insurance. 37.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.16 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 36619 would have to travel an average of 2.30 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Baypointe Behavioral Health. In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,144 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 36619, Mobile, Alabama.
Health Scores in 36619, Mobile, Alabama
Hypertension Score | 60 |
---|---|
People Score | 53 |
Provider Score | 63 |
Hospital Score | 20 |
Travel Score | 70 |
36619 | Mobile | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 47.56 | 49.28 | 53.03 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 11.93 | 11.01 | 13.43 |
Medicare | 21.33 | 18.90 | 19.93 |
Medicaid | 17.69 | 23.65 | 19.33 |
TRICARE | 2.50 | 3.33 | 4.57 |
VA | 49.11 | 54.05 | 53.18 |
Percent Insured in 36619, Mobile, Alabama
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
36619 | Mobile | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 93.88 | 97.31 | 96.59 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 72.53 | 82.10 | 85.09 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 99.41 | 99.54 |
## Hypertension Score: A Pulse Check on Community Health in 36619, Mobile, Alabama
The air hangs thick and humid in Mobile, Alabama, a familiar embrace for the residents of ZIP code 36619. It’s a place where Spanish moss drapes languidly from ancient oaks, where the scent of saltwater mingles with the sweet perfume of blooming magnolias, and where the rhythm of life beats a little slower, a little more… southern. But beneath this picturesque veneer, a silent threat simmers: hypertension.
This isn't just a medical term; it's a barometer of community health, a measure of the pressures – both literal and figurative – that weigh on the lives of the people who call 36619 home. The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather an attempt to understand the complex interplay of factors – demographics, access to resources, lifestyle choices, and the very fabric of the community – that contribute to this pervasive health challenge.
**A Snapshot of 36619: The People and the Place**
36619 is a diverse tapestry. It’s a mosaic of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and story. From the bustling streets near the University of South Alabama, where the energy of young minds and the promise of the future hums, to the quieter residential areas, where generations have put down roots, the zip code reflects the broader spectrum of Mobile itself.
The demographics paint a picture of both opportunity and challenge. A significant portion of the population is African American, and the median household income is lower than the state and national averages. This economic reality is a critical factor. Poverty, or the constant struggle against it, can be a relentless stressor, a pressure cooker that contributes directly to the development of hypertension. Access to quality healthcare, healthy food options, and safe spaces for exercise can become luxuries when financial resources are stretched thin.
Consider the scene: a single mother, juggling two jobs to make ends meet. Her days are a blur of deadlines, errands, and the ever-present worry about providing for her children. The convenience of fast food, the lack of time for cooking healthy meals, and the stress of navigating a complex healthcare system all contribute to a cascade of factors that increase her risk. This is not a judgment, but a stark reality for many in 36619.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Strengths and Weaknesses**
The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. It’s about more than just the physical environment; it’s about the sense of community, the social connections, and the overall feeling of safety and belonging.
Think of the vibrant energy of the community gardens, where residents come together to cultivate fresh produce, sharing not just vegetables but also knowledge and support. These spaces are lifelines, offering not just healthy food but also a sense of purpose and connection.
Contrast this with the areas where vacant lots and abandoned buildings cast long shadows, where the fear of crime keeps people indoors, and where the lack of sidewalks and safe streets limits opportunities for physical activity. These pockets of neglect can breed isolation and despair, further exacerbating the pressures that contribute to hypertension.
The availability of parks and green spaces is another vital element. Dozens of kids playing basketball at the local park. The presence of these spaces encourages physical activity and provides opportunities for social interaction, both crucial elements of a healthy lifestyle. However, the quality of these spaces matters. Are they well-maintained? Are they accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities or financial constraints?
**Healthy Lifestyle in Mobile: The Challenges and the Opportunities**
The pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in 36619 is a constant balancing act. The heat and humidity can be a deterrent to outdoor exercise, and the prevalence of processed foods and sugary drinks in local stores can make healthy eating a challenge.
But the spirit of Mobile is resilient. There's a growing awareness of the importance of healthy living, and a burgeoning network of local wellness programs is working to address the challenges.
Consider the community health clinics, offering affordable healthcare services, including screenings for hypertension and diabetes. These clinics are often the first line of defense, providing vital access to medical care for those who might otherwise go without.
Then there are the local initiatives promoting healthy eating. Farmers markets, offering fresh, locally sourced produce, are popping up in various neighborhoods. Cooking classes, teaching residents how to prepare nutritious meals on a budget, are gaining popularity.
The role of faith-based organizations is also significant. Churches and other religious institutions often serve as hubs for community outreach, providing health education, support groups, and even exercise programs.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Fresh Air**
Outdoor recreation plays a critical role in managing hypertension. The opportunity to get outside, to move your body, and to connect with nature can have a profound impact on both physical and mental well-being.
The possibilities in 36619 are abundant. The nearby Gulf Coast offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The local parks provide trails for walking, jogging, and biking.
Imagine a group of friends, gathering early in the morning to walk the trails, the rising sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The gentle exercise, the camaraderie, and the beauty of the natural surroundings combine to create a powerful antidote to the stresses of daily life.
The key is accessibility. Are these recreational opportunities available to everyone? Are the trails well-maintained and safe? Are there programs to encourage participation, especially among those who may be less familiar with outdoor activities?
**Places to Live: A Matter of Choice and Circumstance**
The "places to live" within 36619 are as varied as the people who inhabit them. From single-family homes with manicured lawns to apartment complexes with shared amenities, the choices reflect a range of economic circumstances and lifestyle preferences.
The availability of affordable housing is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. When housing costs consume a large portion of a family's income, it can lead to increased stress, reduced access to healthy food and healthcare, and a diminished ability to invest in one's well-being.
The proximity to essential services is also important. Are residents able to easily access grocery stores, pharmacies, and healthcare providers? Are there reliable transportation options for those who don't have their own vehicles?
Consider the impact of a lack of public transportation. A resident without a car might be forced to walk long distances to get to work, the grocery store, or the doctor's office. This can exacerbate the challenges of managing hypertension, especially in the hot and humid climate.
**The Road Ahead: Building a Healthier 36619**
The Hypertension Score in 36619 is not a static number; it's a dynamic reflection of the community's ongoing efforts to improve its health and well-being.
Addressing the challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. It demands a commitment to:
* **Improving access to affordable healthcare:** Expanding the reach of community health clinics, providing free or low-cost screenings, and ensuring access to necessary medications.
* **Promoting healthy eating:** Supporting farmers markets, offering cooking classes, and working with local grocery stores to increase the availability of fresh, affordable produce.
* **Creating safe and accessible spaces for physical activity:** Investing in parks and recreational facilities, building sidewalks and bike lanes, and promoting walking and biking as viable transportation options.
* **Strengthening community connections:** Supporting neighborhood associations, fostering social support networks, and creating opportunities for residents to connect with each other.
* **Addressing the root causes of poverty:** Investing in job training programs, providing affordable housing options, and advocating for policies that support economic opportunity.
The journey toward a healthier 36619 will not be easy. It will require collaboration between residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. But the potential rewards – a community where people are healthier, happier, and more resilient – are well worth the effort.
As the sun sets over Mobile Bay, casting a golden glow over the Spanish moss and the bustling streets, the people of 36619 continue to write their story. It's a story of resilience, of hope, and of the unwavering pursuit of a healthier future, one heartbeat at a time. The Hypertension Score is a reminder of the challenges they face, but it is also a call to action, a challenge to build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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