The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 47683, Somerville, Indiana is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.50 percent of the residents in 47683 has some form of health insurance. 47.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 47683 would have to travel an average of 12.93 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Gibson General Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 588 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 47683, Somerville, Indiana.
Health Scores in 47683, Somerville, Indiana
Hypertension Score | 74 |
---|---|
People Score | 86 |
Provider Score | 16 |
Hospital Score | 76 |
Travel Score | 50 |
47683 | Somerville | Indiana | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 51.25 | 51.25 | 58.35 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 8.75 | 8.75 | 12.55 |
Medicare | 27.50 | 27.50 | 17.35 |
Medicaid | 26.25 | 26.25 | 18.08 |
TRICARE | 0.00 | 0.00 | 1.61 |
VA | 51.25 | 51.25 | 51.91 |
Percent Insured in 47683, Somerville, Indiana
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
47683 | Somerville | Indiana | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 93.68 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 96.00 | 96.00 | 89.39 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.47 |
## The Somerville Surge: Unpacking the Hypertension Score in 47683
The wind whips across the patchwork fields surrounding Somerville, Indiana (ZIP Code 47683), a constant whisper of the rolling landscape. It's a wind that carries the scent of freshly turned earth, the distant rumble of a combine, and, increasingly, the quiet hum of a community grappling with its health. We're here to delve into the hypertension score of 47683, not just as a statistic, but as a reflection of the lives lived within its borders, the choices made, and the potential for a healthier future.
The term "hypertension score" isn't a formal metric, but a lens through which we can examine the factors contributing to high blood pressure within a community. It's a tapestry woven from threads of demographics, access to resources, lifestyle choices, and the very fabric of the neighborhood itself. In Somerville, this tapestry reveals a story of resilience, a yearning for wellness, and the opportunity for a powerful transformation.
**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Heart of the Matter**
Somerville, a speck on the map in southwestern Indiana, is predominantly rural. The 2020 census paints a picture of a close-knit community, with a population hovering around 1,500 residents. The median age skews older, a common characteristic of rural areas, suggesting a higher proportion of individuals in the age brackets most susceptible to hypertension.
The economic landscape is largely agrarian, with farming and related industries playing a significant role. This can translate to a more physically demanding lifestyle for some, but also potential limitations in access to fresh, affordable produce. The area's racial makeup is overwhelmingly white, a factor that can influence health outcomes due to potential disparities in healthcare access and awareness.
Imagine Mrs. Gable, a lifelong resident, tending her expansive garden. Her hands, weathered by years of work, expertly coax life from the soil. She remembers a time when everyone knew everyone, when neighbors helped neighbors, and when the pace of life was dictated by the seasons. She's seen the community evolve, the challenges and triumphs etched onto the faces of those she passes on Main Street. She knows, firsthand, the impact of health on her own well-being and the well-being of those around her.
The demographics of 47683, therefore, present a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to hypertension. The aging population, coupled with potential economic constraints and limited access to specialized healthcare, could contribute to a higher hypertension score. However, the strong sense of community, the inherent connection to the land, and the potential for promoting healthy lifestyles offer a powerful counterweight.
**Where We Live: Housing, Resources, and the Built Environment**
The type of housing available in Somerville and its surrounding areas significantly impacts community health. Are there well-maintained sidewalks for walking? Are there parks and green spaces for recreation? Are there affordable housing options that allow residents to prioritize healthy choices over financial stress?
The houses themselves range from historic farmhouses with sprawling yards to more modern, modest homes. The availability of affordable, well-maintained housing is crucial. Overcrowding, poor ventilation, and lack of access to essential utilities can contribute to stress and poor health outcomes, indirectly impacting the hypertension score.
Consider the absence of a dedicated grocery store in Somerville. Residents rely on a combination of small local markets, trips to larger towns, and, increasingly, online ordering. This lack of readily available, affordable, and fresh produce can make it challenging to maintain a heart-healthy diet.
The built environment, the physical surroundings of the community, plays a critical role. Are there safe, well-lit streets for evening walks? Are there designated bike paths? Are there community gardens where residents can grow their own food? The answers to these questions directly influence the opportunities for physical activity and access to healthy food, two crucial components in managing and preventing hypertension.
Picture Mr. Henderson, a retired farmer, walking his dog, Gus, along the quiet country roads. He's been walking Gus for years, a routine that keeps him active and connected to the natural beauty surrounding his home. He knows the importance of staying active, but he also knows the challenges of navigating the lack of sidewalks and the distance to the nearest park.
**The Vibe: Community Spirit and the Neighborhood Pulse**
The "neighborhood vibe" of Somerville is crucial to understanding its hypertension score. Is there a strong sense of community? Do neighbors look out for each other? Are there opportunities for social interaction and support?
The spirit of Somerville is evident in the annual county fair, the Friday night fish fries at the local VFW, and the volunteer efforts that keep the community running. This sense of connection and belonging is a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, both of which can contribute to high blood pressure.
However, the rural nature of the area can also present challenges. Limited access to social services, healthcare providers, and community resources can create a sense of isolation for some residents. The lack of readily available information about health screenings and preventative care can also impact the hypertension score.
Imagine the weekly bingo night at the community center. Laughter fills the air, friendships are forged, and the simple act of gathering provides a sense of connection. This social interaction, this shared experience, is a vital component of community health.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and the Call of the Wild**
The natural beauty of 47683 offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The rolling hills, the winding creeks, and the vast expanse of farmland provide a backdrop for a variety of activities.
The ability to engage in regular physical activity is a cornerstone of preventing and managing hypertension. Hiking, biking, fishing, and simply enjoying the outdoors can significantly impact blood pressure levels.
Picture the kids from the local school, running and playing in the fields after school. The freedom of movement, the fresh air, and the joy of being outdoors are invaluable. The availability of safe spaces for children to play, and for adults to exercise, is a key factor in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The challenge, however, lies in ensuring that these opportunities are accessible to all residents. Are there well-maintained trails? Are there organized outdoor activities? Are there programs that encourage participation from all age groups and abilities?
**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change and the Path Forward**
While Somerville may not have a bustling city center, the seeds of change are already being sown. Local wellness programs, even if small in scale, can have a significant impact on the hypertension score.
Perhaps a local church hosts a weekly walking group, providing a supportive environment for exercise and social interaction. Maybe the county health department offers free blood pressure screenings and educational workshops. Perhaps the local school incorporates healthy eating habits into its curriculum.
Imagine a community health fair, where residents can access information about healthy eating, exercise, and stress management. Imagine a partnership between the local school and a community garden, where children learn about growing their own food.
The key is to identify existing resources and build upon them. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local leaders is essential. The focus should be on creating sustainable programs that empower residents to take control of their health.
**A Call to Action: Cultivating a Healthier Somerville**
The hypertension score of 47683 is not a static number. It's a living reflection of the community's health, a barometer of its well-being. By understanding the factors that contribute to high blood pressure, we can identify opportunities to improve the lives of its residents.
Here's what we can do:
* **Enhance Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased access to primary care physicians, specialists, and preventative care services. Explore telehealth options to reach residents in remote areas.
* **Promote Healthy Eating:** Support the development of community gardens, farmers' markets, and programs that educate residents about healthy eating habits. Advocate for policies that make fresh, affordable produce more accessible.
* **Encourage Physical Activity:** Invest in the development of walking trails, bike paths, and recreational facilities. Support programs that promote physical activity for all ages and abilities.
* **Foster a Strong Sense of Community:** Encourage social interaction, volunteerism, and community events. Create opportunities for residents to connect with each other and build supportive relationships.
* **Educate and Empower:** Provide residents with information about hypertension, its risk factors, and its management. Empower them to take control of their health through education and access to resources.
The journey towards a healthier Somerville is a collective effort. It requires the dedication of residents, the support of local leaders, and the collaboration of healthcare providers and community organizations. It's a journey that promises not only a lower hypertension score, but also a stronger, more vibrant, and more resilient community.
The wind still whispers through the fields, but now, it carries a new message: a message of hope, of change, and of the unwavering spirit of Somerville, Indiana. The future is not predetermined; it is being written, one healthy choice, one supportive connection, one step at a time.
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