28364, Maxton, North Carolina Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 28364 has some form of health insurance. 48.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.46 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28364 would have to travel an average of 8.16 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Scotland Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,136 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina.

## The Heartbeat of Maxton: Unpacking the Hypertension Score in 28364

The air in Maxton, North Carolina, hangs thick with the scent of pine and the promise of a new day. The sun, a molten coin in the eastern sky, paints the weathered brick facades of Main Street in hues of apricot and rose. This is the heart of 28364, a ZIP code etched with the stories of generations, a place where community isn't just a word, it's a living, breathing entity. But beneath the surface of small-town charm, a silent threat lurks: hypertension, or high blood pressure. This isn't just a medical statistic; it's a reflection of the community's health, a complex tapestry woven from lifestyle, access, and the very fabric of daily life.

We’re diving deep into the hypertension score in Maxton, exploring what contributes to it, and, more importantly, what can be done to improve the health of its residents. We'll move beyond dry data and statistics, painting a picture of life in 28364, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that shape its health landscape.

**Understanding the Score: A Look at the Numbers**

While we don't have a specific, publicly available "Hypertension Score" for 28364, we can use publicly available health data, demographic information, and anecdotal evidence to paint a picture of the hypertension risk factors prevalent in the community. This allows us to understand the *potential* hypertension prevalence and its underlying causes.

Factors like age, race, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare significantly impact hypertension risk. Maxton, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges in several of these areas.

**Demographics: The Faces of 28364**

The demographics of 28364 are crucial to understanding the health landscape. This ZIP code is home to a diverse population, with a significant percentage of African American and Native American residents. These populations often face disproportionately higher rates of hypertension due to a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, historical inequities, and access to healthcare.

Consider Mrs. Johnson, a matriarch of a large family, whose porch swing creaks rhythmically as she watches her grandchildren play in the yard. She's lived in Maxton her entire life, witnessing the ebb and flow of the community. She remembers a time when fresh produce was readily available from local farms, and neighbors walked to each other's houses. Now, she relies on the local grocery store, a little further away, and the pace of life has quickened.

Then there's Mr. Ramirez, a construction worker, who works long hours under the scorching Carolina sun. His diet often consists of quick, convenient meals, and he struggles to find time for regular checkups.

These individual stories, multiplied across the community, highlight the challenges faced by many residents.

**Places to Live: The Geography of Health**

The physical environment of 28364 plays a significant role in its health. The availability of affordable and safe housing, access to grocery stores with healthy food options, and the presence of green spaces for recreation all contribute to overall well-being.

The neighborhoods in Maxton vary, with some areas experiencing more economic hardship than others. This can impact access to resources like healthcare and healthy food.

Imagine a walk down Main Street. The historic buildings stand as a testament to the town's past. But are there sidewalks in good repair? Are there safe places for children to play? Are there parks and green spaces where residents can exercise and connect with nature? The answers to these questions paint a picture of the community's commitment to its residents' well-being.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community and Connection**

The "neighborhood vibe" of Maxton is characterized by a strong sense of community. Neighbors look out for each other, and there's a deep-rooted connection to the land and its history. This sense of community is a powerful asset in promoting health and well-being.

Think of the annual Lumbee River EMC Christmas Parade, a vibrant display of community spirit. Or the local church potlucks, where neighbors gather to share food and fellowship. These events foster social connections, which are crucial for mental and physical health.

However, even in a close-knit community, challenges can exist. Isolation, lack of social support, and limited access to transportation can all contribute to stress and unhealthy behaviors, increasing the risk of hypertension.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Maxton: The Path to Wellness**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle is key to combating hypertension. This includes encouraging a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques.

The challenge lies in making these lifestyle changes accessible and sustainable for all residents.

Consider the food environment. Are there enough grocery stores offering fresh, affordable produce? Are there farmers' markets that bring local, healthy options to the community? Are there opportunities for cooking classes or nutrition education programs?

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Carolina Outdoors**

Maxton and its surrounding areas offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Lumber River, a scenic waterway, provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Local parks and trails offer spaces for walking, running, and biking.

Imagine a family taking a leisurely stroll along the Lumber River, the sunlight dappling through the trees. Or a group of friends gathering for a friendly game of basketball at the local park. These activities not only provide physical exercise but also promote mental well-being and a sense of connection with nature.

However, access to these recreational opportunities may be limited for some residents. Transportation, cost, and the availability of safe and well-maintained facilities can all be barriers.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

The good news is that Maxton is not alone in its struggle. There are local wellness programs and initiatives that are working to address the challenges of hypertension and promote community health.

The Robeson County Health Department, for example, offers various programs and services, including health screenings, health education, and chronic disease management. Local churches and community organizations also play a vital role in promoting health and wellness.

Imagine a community health fair, where residents can receive free health screenings, learn about healthy eating habits, and participate in exercise demonstrations. Or a walking club that meets regularly to encourage physical activity and social connection.

These initiatives are crucial in providing residents with the resources and support they need to live healthier lives.

**The Road Ahead: A Call to Action**

Improving the health of 28364 requires a multi-pronged approach. It demands collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and, most importantly, the residents themselves.

Here are some key areas for action:

* **Increase access to healthcare:** Expand access to affordable healthcare services, including regular checkups, screenings, and chronic disease management.
* **Promote healthy eating:** Support local farmers' markets, increase access to affordable and healthy food options, and offer nutrition education programs.
* **Encourage physical activity:** Improve access to parks and recreational facilities, promote walking and biking, and organize community-based exercise programs.
* **Strengthen social support:** Foster community connections, address social isolation, and provide mental health services.
* **Raise awareness:** Educate residents about hypertension, its risk factors, and the importance of lifestyle changes.

The journey to a healthier Maxton won't be easy, but the potential rewards are immense. By working together, the residents of 28364 can build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The sun sets over Maxton, casting long shadows across the town. The air cools, and the sounds of crickets fill the night. But the spirit of the community remains strong, a beacon of hope for a healthier future. The heartbeat of Maxton continues, a rhythm of resilience, community, and the unwavering pursuit of well-being. The work is ongoing, the challenges are real, but the potential for positive change is palpable. The future of health in 28364 is not just a statistic; it's a story in the making, written by the people of Maxton, one healthy step at a time.