28394, Vass, North Carolina Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 28394, Vass, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.45 percent of the residents in 28394 has some form of health insurance. 40.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.80 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28394 would have to travel an average of 12.77 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Firsthealth Moore Regional Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,707 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28394, Vass, North Carolina.

## The Pulse of Vass: Unpacking the Hypertension Score in 28394

The air in Vass, North Carolina, hums with a particular energy. It's a blend of small-town charm, the quiet rustle of longleaf pines, and the steady beat of a community striving for something more. That "something more" includes a healthier, more vibrant future, and a crucial piece of that puzzle is understanding the hypertension landscape within the 28394 ZIP code. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the people, the places, and the choices that shape their well-being. Let's dive in.

**Understanding the Score: Beyond the Numbers**

Before we even glimpse at the data, we need to acknowledge the human element. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, isn't just a medical term; it's a potential threat that touches every facet of life. It can limit energy, impact mobility, and ultimately, affect the quality of life for individuals and the community as a whole. Assessing the "Hypertension Score" in 28394 is more than just compiling statistics. It's about recognizing the factors that contribute to this health challenge and identifying opportunities to improve them.

**Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**

The 28394 ZIP code paints a picture of a diverse community. Generations intertwine here. You have families who have called Vass home for decades, their roots running deep in the sandy soil. Then there are the newcomers, drawn by the promise of a slower pace, affordable living, and the allure of the Sandhills region. This mix of long-term residents and fresh faces creates a unique dynamic, one that influences everything from local businesses to the availability of healthcare resources.

The population skews slightly older, a trend common in many rural areas. This demographic shift means a greater prevalence of age-related health concerns, including hypertension. Understanding the specific age groups, their access to healthcare, and their individual health needs is critical. Furthermore, the economic makeup of the community plays a significant role. Factors like income levels, employment opportunities, and access to healthy food options all influence health outcomes.

**Places to Live: Where Home Meets Health**

The landscape of 28394 is dotted with a variety of living situations. You'll find charming, historic homes lining the streets of downtown Vass, their porches whispering stories of generations past. Further out, you'll discover newer subdivisions with spacious yards and modern amenities, catering to growing families. There are also pockets of more affordable housing, crucial for ensuring that all residents have a safe and stable place to call home.

The very structure of these living environments can subtly influence health. Do residents have access to sidewalks for walking and biking? Are there parks and green spaces nearby for outdoor recreation? Are grocery stores with fresh produce readily accessible, or are residents reliant on convenience stores with limited healthy options? The answers to these questions help shape the hypertension landscape.

Imagine a sunny morning in Vass. A woman, perhaps a retiree, steps out of her meticulously kept bungalow. She pulls on her walking shoes and heads down the tree-lined street, the scent of pine needles filling the air. She's part of a walking group that meets regularly, a simple act of community that contributes to her physical and mental well-being. This small scene highlights the power of place and the importance of creating environments that support healthy habits.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Connection**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is intangible, yet profoundly impactful. In Vass, that vibe is characterized by a strong sense of community. Neighbors know each other, they look out for each other, and they come together to celebrate life's joys and support each other through challenges. This social connection is a powerful buffer against stress, a known contributor to hypertension.

Picture a Friday evening at the local community center. Families gather for a potluck dinner, laughter echoing through the hall. Children play games, while adults chat and share stories. This sense of belonging, this feeling of being connected, is a vital ingredient in the recipe for community health. It encourages people to look after themselves and each other, fostering a sense of responsibility for the collective well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Sandhills**

Vass is blessed with the natural beauty of the Sandhills region. The longleaf pines, the rolling hills, and the numerous outdoor recreational opportunities provide a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. This access to nature is a crucial asset in the fight against hypertension.

Think of a brisk morning hike at the nearby Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve. The crisp air, the rustling leaves, and the physical exertion combine to lower blood pressure and boost mood. Or consider a leisurely bike ride along the scenic country roads, the sun on your face, the wind in your hair. These activities are not just enjoyable; they are essential components of a healthy lifestyle.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The community of Vass is not passive in its pursuit of health. There are seeds of change already sprouting, initiatives that are working to address the hypertension challenge. These local wellness programs are the lifeblood of a healthier future.

Perhaps there's a partnership between the local health clinic and a community garden, providing residents with access to fresh, affordable produce. Maybe there's a walking club organized by the local library, encouraging residents to get active and socialize. Or perhaps there are educational workshops offered at the community center, teaching residents about healthy eating habits and stress management techniques.

Imagine a group of seniors attending a cooking class, learning how to prepare delicious, low-sodium meals. They share recipes, laugh together, and build a sense of camaraderie. This is the power of local wellness programs: they empower individuals, build community, and create a ripple effect of positive change.

**Specific Considerations for 28394**

To truly understand the Hypertension Score in 28394, specific data is needed. This includes:

* **Prevalence Rates:** What percentage of the population in 28394 is diagnosed with hypertension?
* **Access to Healthcare:** How readily available are primary care physicians, specialists, and preventative care services? Are there transportation barriers to accessing healthcare?
* **Insurance Coverage:** What is the rate of uninsured or underinsured residents?
* **Dietary Habits:** What are the eating patterns of the community? Is there access to affordable, healthy food options? Are there programs to promote healthy eating?
* **Physical Activity Levels:** How active are residents? Are there opportunities for walking, biking, and other forms of exercise?
* **Stress Levels:** What are the primary sources of stress in the community? Are there resources available to manage stress?
* **Awareness and Education:** How informed are residents about hypertension and its prevention?

**A Call to Action: Cultivating a Healthier Vass**

Understanding the Hypertension Score in 28394 is not just about analyzing data; it's about igniting a community-wide effort to promote health and well-being. It requires collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and, most importantly, the residents themselves.

This could mean:

* **Expanding access to affordable healthcare:** Ensuring that all residents have access to primary care, preventative screenings, and necessary medications.
* **Promoting healthy eating habits:** Supporting farmers' markets, community gardens, and nutrition education programs.
* **Creating opportunities for physical activity:** Investing in parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities.
* **Fostering a strong sense of community:** Encouraging social connections, reducing social isolation, and promoting a supportive environment.
* **Raising awareness and providing education:** Educating residents about hypertension, its risk factors, and its prevention.

Imagine a future where Vass is known not just for its charm and beauty, but also for its vibrant health. Where residents are empowered to take control of their well-being, where hypertension is understood and managed effectively, and where the community thrives as a testament to the power of collective action. This is the potential of the 28394 ZIP code, and it's a future worth striving for. The pulse of Vass is strong, and with concerted effort, it can beat even stronger, a rhythm of health and vitality for generations to come.