The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 04006, Biddeford Pool, Maine is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 04006 has some form of health insurance. 68.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 04006 would have to travel an average of 39.14 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Mid Coast Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 591 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 04006, Biddeford Pool, Maine.
Health Scores in 04006, Biddeford Pool, Maine
Hypertension Score | 100 |
---|---|
People Score | 84 |
Provider Score | 99 |
Hospital Score | 83 |
Travel Score | 57 |
04006 | Biddeford Pool | Maine | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 100.00 | 100.00 | 54.75 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 9.26 | 9.26 | 15.26 |
Medicare | 68.52 | 68.52 | 22.81 |
Medicaid | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.76 |
TRICARE | 0.00 | 0.00 | 3.46 |
VA | 48.15 | 48.15 | 53.26 |
Percent Insured in 04006, Biddeford Pool, Maine
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
04006 | Biddeford Pool | Maine | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 95.14 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 89.30 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.87 |
## The Salt Spray Score: Unveiling Hypertension and Thriving Health in Biddeford Pool (ZIP Code 04006)
The air in Biddeford Pool, Maine, is a symphony of salt spray and the cries of gulls. It’s a place where weathered clapboard houses huddle against the relentless Atlantic, where the scent of pine mingles with the briny tang of the ocean. But beneath the postcard-perfect façade, a critical question lingers: How healthy are the people who call this stunning coastal enclave home? And more specifically, what’s the pulse – both literal and figurative – of hypertension within the community of ZIP Code 04006?
We're not talking about generic health statistics here. This isn't a dry recitation of numbers. This is about understanding the *lived experience* of health in Biddeford Pool, about uncovering the factors that contribute to the well-being of its residents, and identifying the potential pitfalls that might silently threaten their vitality. We're going to create a "Salt Spray Score" – a personalized assessment of community health that goes beyond simple statistics, delving into the very fabric of life in this unique coastal community.
**The Demographics: A Portrait of the Pool**
Before we can understand the health landscape, we need to understand the people. Biddeford Pool, while geographically small, boasts a fascinating demographic profile. While precise figures fluctuate, the community tends to be older, with a significant percentage of residents over 65. This aging population brings with it a heightened awareness of health concerns, including, of course, hypertension. The community also sees a seasonal influx of visitors, adding a layer of dynamism and potential challenges to the health ecosystem.
Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a lifelong resident, her face etched with the stories of countless summers spent on the beach. She remembers when the Pool was a sleepy fishing village, before the influx of summer residents. Now, she walks the same sandy paths, but with a keen awareness of her blood pressure, meticulously tracking it with her home monitor. Her health is intertwined with the rhythm of the Pool, the ebb and flow of the tides, and the constant presence of the ocean breeze.
Then there’s young Thomas, a recent transplant, drawn to the Pool's tranquility and the promise of a slower pace of life. He's a remote worker, juggling deadlines and the desire to embrace a healthy lifestyle. He finds himself drawn to the local trails, seeking solace and exercise in the natural beauty that surrounds him. His health journey is a blend of adapting to a new environment and navigating the demands of modern life.
These individual stories, multiplied across the community, paint a picture of a population with a unique set of health needs and opportunities.
**The Places We Live: Homes and Havens**
The architecture of Biddeford Pool tells a story. The historic homes, many dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, whisper of a bygone era. These grand, often meticulously maintained residences are a testament to the area's enduring appeal. But they also present a challenge. Older homes can sometimes lack modern amenities that promote healthy living, such as easy access to exercise spaces or well-designed kitchens that encourage healthy meal preparation.
Consider the charming cottage nestled on a quiet side street. Its small kitchen might be a challenge for someone trying to prepare healthy, home-cooked meals. Contrast that with the modern, energy-efficient homes that are slowly emerging, designed with open-plan living spaces and easy access to the outdoors. These newer homes often reflect a conscious effort to integrate health and wellness into the very architecture of the community.
Beyond individual homes, the very layout of Biddeford Pool influences its health. The close-knit nature of the community, with its walkable streets and easy access to the beach, fosters a sense of connection and encourages physical activity. The proximity to the ocean itself is a powerful force, drawing people outdoors for walks, swims, and simply to breathe in the fresh air.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: Connection and Community**
The "vibe" of Biddeford Pool is palpable. It's a blend of quiet serenity and understated elegance. There’s a sense of mutual respect, a shared appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds them. This creates a fertile ground for community health initiatives.
Picture the local post office, a hub of social interaction. Conversations flow easily, news is shared, and the bonds of community are strengthened. This informal network can be a powerful tool for disseminating health information and encouraging healthy behaviors.
Then there's the beach itself. It's more than just a place for sunbathing and swimming; it's a social gathering spot, a place where neighbors connect, where children play, and where the rhythm of life slows down. The shared experience of enjoying the ocean fosters a sense of belonging and encourages a sense of collective responsibility for the community's well-being.
**Outdoor Recreation: The Ocean's Embrace and Beyond**
The natural beauty of Biddeford Pool is its greatest asset, and a key component of a healthy lifestyle. The ocean is a constant invitation to movement. Walking along the beach, swimming in the cool water, or simply breathing in the sea air are all powerful ways to improve physical and mental health.
Imagine the invigorating feeling of a brisk morning walk along the rocky coastline, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the salty air filling your lungs. This is the daily reality for many residents of Biddeford Pool.
Beyond the beach, the area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding natural areas. The nearby trails provide a chance to escape into the woods, to connect with nature, and to get some exercise. The availability of these outdoor activities is a significant advantage for promoting a healthy lifestyle.
**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Health**
While Biddeford Pool is a relatively small community, there are opportunities to nurture and expand local wellness programs. These initiatives are crucial for addressing health concerns like hypertension and promoting a culture of well-being.
Consider the potential for partnerships with local healthcare providers to offer blood pressure screenings and educational workshops. Imagine a community garden, where residents can grow their own fresh produce, fostering healthy eating habits and promoting social interaction.
Perhaps a local yoga class could be established, offering a gentle and accessible form of exercise for all ages and abilities. The key is to build upon the existing strengths of the community, to create programs that are tailored to the specific needs and interests of the residents.
**The Salt Spray Score: A Holistic Assessment**
The "Salt Spray Score" is not a single number. It's a holistic assessment of the factors that influence the health of the community. It considers the demographics, the housing, the neighborhood vibe, the access to outdoor recreation, and the availability of local wellness programs.
**To improve the Salt Spray Score, the community could focus on:**
* **Expanding access to health screenings:** Partnering with local healthcare providers to offer regular blood pressure screenings and education on hypertension management.
* **Promoting healthy eating:** Supporting community gardens, farmers' markets, and educational programs on healthy meal preparation.
* **Enhancing opportunities for physical activity:** Improving access to walking trails, promoting outdoor recreation, and offering fitness classes.
* **Strengthening community connections:** Fostering social interaction through community events, volunteer opportunities, and neighborhood initiatives.
* **Advocating for age-friendly housing:** Encouraging the development of homes that are accessible, energy-efficient, and designed to promote healthy living.
**The Future of Health in Biddeford Pool**
Biddeford Pool has the potential to be a model for healthy living. By embracing its unique strengths, by fostering a strong sense of community, and by proactively addressing the challenges of an aging population, the community can create a thriving environment where residents of all ages can flourish.
The Salt Spray Score is not just a measure of current health; it's a roadmap for the future. It's a call to action, a reminder that the health of a community is a shared responsibility. As the sun sets over the Atlantic, casting a golden glow over the shores of Biddeford Pool, the community has the opportunity to write its own story, a story of health, vitality, and enduring well-being. It's a story that starts with understanding the pulse of the community, and then taking the necessary steps to ensure that pulse beats strong, for generations to come. The salt spray whispers of possibilities, of a future where the residents of 04006 can truly thrive.
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