Hypertension Score

27842, Henrico, North Carolina Hypertension Score People Score

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Health Scores

People Score in 27842, Henrico, North Carolina

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 27842, Henrico, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.73 percent of the residents in 27842 has some form of health insurance. 45.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.80 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 27842 would have to travel an average of 13.42 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Halifax Regional Medical Center Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 398 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 27842, Henrico, North Carolina.

Health Scores in 27842, Henrico, North Carolina

Hypertension Score 60
People Score 91
Provider Score 39
Hospital Score 50
Travel Score 26

Insurance Types

27842 Henrico North Carolina
Employer Insurance 48.68 48.68 51.42
Direct Purchase Insurance 27.78 27.78 14.69
Medicare 39.84 39.84 18.16
Medicaid 4.31 4.31 17.74
TRICARE 12.92 12.92 4.27
VA 55.11 55.11 53.01

Percent Insured in 27842, Henrico, North Carolina

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

Insurance Rate by Age

27842 Henrico North Carolina
Under 19 80.37 80.37 94.50
Adults (19-64 years) 88.52 88.52 84.37
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 100.00 99.44

People Score Review of 27842, Henrico, North Carolina

## Hypertension Score: Unpacking Community Health in Henrico, NC (ZIP Code 27842)

The humid North Carolina air hangs heavy, a familiar embrace over Henrico. It’s a town where the rhythm of life still echoes with the slow drawl of conversations on front porches, the sizzle of barbeque on a Friday night, and the unwavering loyalty to the local high school football team. But beneath this veneer of Southern charm lies a critical story, a story whispered in the quiet hallways of the community clinic, a story etched in the numbers that paint a picture of community health. We’re talking about hypertension, high blood pressure, a silent threat that casts a long shadow over the lives of many in ZIP Code 27842.

This isn't just about medical jargon; it's about the very fabric of life in Henrico. It's about the choices we make, the resources we have, and the support systems that either lift us up or weigh us down. Understanding the "Hypertension Score" for Henrico isn't just about crunching numbers; it's about understanding the heart of the community itself.

**Demographics: The Faces of Henrico**

Let's start with the faces. Henrico, in its essence, is a tapestry woven from generations of families. The population is predominantly African American, a heritage that runs deep in the soil and the spirit of the town. There's a palpable sense of community, a shared history that binds people together. But this close-knit nature also means that health challenges can ripple through the community, impacting families and neighborhoods in profound ways.

The median age in 27842 skews slightly older than the national average, a factor that naturally increases the risk of hypertension. Many residents have lived here their entire lives, witnessing the ebb and flow of the town's fortunes. The economic landscape is a mix of working-class families, small business owners, and retirees. The cost of living is relatively affordable, but access to quality healthcare and healthy food options can be a challenge, factors that significantly impact blood pressure control.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a pillar of the community, her hands weathered from years of tending her garden. She’s seen the town change, the old general store replaced by a dollar store, the local doctor's office now a satellite clinic. She worries about her grandchildren, about the future, and about the nagging feeling of fatigue that’s become a constant companion. She knows the importance of a healthy diet, but fresh produce can be a luxury, and the temptation of convenient, processed foods is ever-present.

Then there's Mr. Davis, a retired construction worker, his body bearing the marks of hard labor. He enjoys his daily walks, but the heat of the summer months can be oppressive, and the lack of shaded sidewalks in certain areas makes it difficult to maintain a consistent exercise routine. He's seen his friends and neighbors struggle with high blood pressure, and he knows the importance of staying on top of his health.

These are the faces of Henrico, the people whose lives are intertwined with the health of their community.

**Places to Live: The Landscape of Wellbeing**

The physical environment plays a crucial role in community health. In Henrico, the housing stock is a mix of single-family homes, mobile homes, and some older apartment complexes. While the cost of housing is generally affordable, the age and condition of some properties can contribute to environmental health concerns. Mold, lead paint, and inadequate ventilation can exacerbate respiratory problems and contribute to chronic conditions.

The layout of the town also presents challenges. While there are pockets of green space, such as the local park, access to safe and accessible walking paths and bike lanes is limited in some areas. This makes it harder for residents to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. The lack of readily available sidewalks, particularly in certain neighborhoods, forces people to walk on the side of the road, increasing the risk of accidents.

Consider the neighborhood near the old cotton mill. The air, still carrying the faint scent of industry, is thick with the promise of a new day. The houses, many of them weathered and worn, stand shoulder to shoulder. The residents, a mix of generations, are bound by a shared history and a deep sense of community. But the lack of green spaces and the limited access to healthy food options can make it difficult to prioritize wellbeing.

Contrast this with the newer developments on the outskirts of town. The houses are newer, the streets wider, and the landscaping more manicured. But even here, the emphasis on car-dependent living can limit opportunities for physical activity.

The places we live, the spaces we inhabit, directly impact our health.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Henrico: A Tapestry of Challenges and Opportunities**

The good news is that Henrico is not a town without hope. The community is resilient, resourceful, and deeply committed to its own wellbeing. However, the path to a healthier lifestyle is often paved with challenges.

**Dietary Habits:** The availability of healthy food options is a significant concern. While there are local grocery stores, the selection of fresh produce can be limited, and the cost can be prohibitive for some families. The prevalence of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores, offering easily accessible but often unhealthy options, contributes to the problem.

Imagine a young mother, working two jobs to make ends meet. She's exhausted, time-pressed, and struggling to provide for her children. The allure of quick, affordable meals is strong, even though she knows they're not the healthiest choices. She dreams of having the time and resources to cook nutritious meals from scratch, but the reality of her daily life often dictates otherwise.

**Physical Activity:** Encouraging physical activity is another key area for improvement. While the local park offers opportunities for recreation, the lack of safe and accessible walking and biking paths limits opportunities for exercise. The heat and humidity of the North Carolina summers can also make outdoor activity challenging.

Picture a group of seniors, eager to stay active and social. They gather at the community center, but the limited space and the lack of organized fitness programs make it difficult to maintain a consistent exercise routine. They long for a safe place to walk and socialize, a place where they can connect with their neighbors and enjoy the fresh air.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Despite the challenges, there are glimmers of hope. Local organizations and community leaders are working tirelessly to address the health needs of Henrico residents.

The local clinic, often the first point of contact for healthcare, plays a vital role in providing preventative care, screening for hypertension, and educating patients about healthy lifestyle choices. They offer blood pressure checks, medication management, and referrals to specialists.

The community center, a hub of activity, hosts various programs aimed at promoting health and wellness. These programs may include exercise classes, cooking demonstrations, and health education workshops.

The local churches, deeply rooted in the community, often serve as a source of support and information. They may offer health screenings, organize walking groups, and provide access to healthy food options.

There's a growing awareness of the importance of community gardens, where residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables. These gardens not only provide access to fresh produce but also foster a sense of community and promote physical activity.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Social Determinants of Health**

The social fabric of Henrico is a powerful force, both a source of strength and a potential source of stress. The strong sense of community can provide a vital support system, but the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and limited access to resources can also create chronic stress, which can contribute to hypertension.

The neighborhood vibe, the unspoken rules and expectations, the shared experiences and challenges, all play a role in shaping health outcomes.

Consider the impact of social isolation. Many residents, particularly seniors, may experience loneliness and a lack of social connection. This can lead to depression, anxiety, and other health problems, which can exacerbate hypertension.

On the other hand, the strong sense of community can also be a source of resilience. Neighbors look out for each other, share resources, and provide emotional support. This can help buffer the negative effects of stress and promote overall wellbeing.

**Outdoor Recreation: Finding Joy in the Natural World**

Henrico's natural beauty offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, but access to these opportunities can be limited. The local park provides a space for walking, picnicking, and playing, but the lack of other recreational facilities can restrict options.

Imagine a family, eager to spend time together outdoors. They pack a picnic lunch and head to the park, enjoying the sunshine and the fresh air. They play games, laugh together, and create lasting memories. But they wish there were more options for outdoor activities, such as a community pool or a walking trail.

The potential for outdoor recreation is there, but it needs to be harnessed and expanded to benefit the community.

**The Hypertension Score: A Call to Action**

The "Hypertension Score" for Henrico, NC (27842) is not a simple number. It's a complex reflection of the community's health, a story woven from demographics, housing, lifestyle choices, local programs, social dynamics, and access to outdoor recreation.

The score, if we could quantify it, would be a call to action. It would highlight the urgent need for:

* **Increased access to affordable, healthy food options.** This includes supporting local farmers markets, establishing community gardens, and advocating for policies that promote healthy food choices.
* **Expanded opportunities for physical activity.** This includes creating safe and accessible walking and biking paths, supporting community fitness programs, and promoting outdoor recreation.
* **Enhanced access to quality healthcare.** This includes ensuring that everyone has access to preventative care, screening for hypertension, and medication management.
* **Strengthened community support systems.** This includes fostering social connections, addressing social isolation, and providing resources for mental health and wellbeing.
* **Empowerment through education.** This includes providing health education workshops, promoting awareness of hypertension, and empowering individuals to take control of their health.

The path to a healthier Henrico is not a solo journey. It requires a collaborative effort, a partnership between healthcare providers, community leaders, residents, and local organizations. It requires a commitment to addressing the root causes of hypertension and creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The future of Henrico depends on the choices we make today. Let's work together to lower the "Hypertension Score" and build a community where health and wellbeing are within reach for all. The story of Henrico, after all, is a story worth writing, a story worth living, a story worth fighting for.

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