The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 08724, Brick, New Jersey is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.68 percent of the residents in 08724 has some form of health insurance. 31.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.54 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 08724 would have to travel an average of 0.86 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Ocean Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,442 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 08724, Brick, New Jersey.
Health Scores in 08724, Brick, New Jersey
Hypertension Score | 51 |
---|---|
People Score | 24 |
Provider Score | 70 |
Hospital Score | 20 |
Travel Score | 80 |
08724 | Brick | New Jersey | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 68.61 | 67.75 | 61.27 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 12.60 | 13.35 | 12.13 |
Medicare | 20.82 | 20.49 | 16.80 |
Medicaid | 12.92 | 12.91 | 17.08 |
TRICARE | 1.30 | 1.05 | 0.98 |
VA | 51.97 | 51.97 | 51.38 |
Percent Insured in 08724, Brick, New Jersey
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
08724 | Brick | New Jersey | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 95.98 | 96.46 | 96.04 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 93.87 | 93.74 | 89.33 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 99.85 | 98.94 |
## Brick, NJ: Unpacking the Hypertension Score – A Community Health Deep Dive in 08724
The salt-laced air of Barnegat Bay, the scent of freshly cut grass from a meticulously manicured lawn, the distant rumble of a jet ski cutting through the water – these are the sensory signatures of Brick, New Jersey, ZIP code 08724. But beneath the veneer of coastal charm and suburban tranquility, a complex tapestry of community health unfolds. Today, we’re diving deep, not just into the scenic beauty, but into the heart of Brick's well-being, focusing on a critical indicator: the hypertension score.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a silent epidemic, a pervasive threat to cardiovascular health. It's a condition often intertwined with lifestyle, environment, and access to resources. Understanding the hypertension score in 08724 is about more than just numbers; it's about understanding the people, the places, and the choices that shape their health.
**The Demographic Canvas: Painting a Picture of 08724**
Before we can assess the health landscape, we need to understand the canvas upon which it's painted. Brick, in 08724, is a diverse community. The demographic makeup is largely white, with significant populations of seniors and families. The median age skews older, reflecting the town's appeal as a retirement destination and a place where families put down roots. This aging demographic is a crucial factor when considering hypertension; age is a significant risk factor.
Beyond age, the socio-economic landscape is varied. While there are pockets of affluence, 08724 also houses working-class families and individuals on fixed incomes. This economic diversity directly impacts access to healthcare, healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity – all key components in managing hypertension.
Consider the sprawling developments near the bay, with their meticulously maintained homes and manicured lawns. Picture the residents, many of whom are retired, enjoying leisurely walks along the waterfront, perhaps with a small dog in tow. This image contrasts with the bustling commercial corridors, lined with fast-food restaurants and convenience stores, where access to healthy food can be a challenge for those with limited resources.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Contrasts**
The "vibe" of 08724 is a complex blend. It's a place where neighbors still wave to each other from their porches, where community events like the annual Summerfest bring people together, and where the local schools foster a strong sense of belonging. But it's also a place where the pressures of modern life – long commutes, financial anxieties, and the constant bombardment of information – can take their toll.
Imagine a sunny Saturday morning. The aroma of bacon and eggs drifts from a cozy diner on Brick Boulevard, where locals gather to catch up over coffee. Across town, at a bustling soccer field, children chase a ball, their parents cheering them on from the sidelines. This scene of active recreation is a positive force, but it's juxtaposed with the sedentary lifestyle that can creep in as people age, leading to a higher risk of hypertension.
The neighborhood vibe is also shaped by the availability of green spaces and recreational opportunities. The township boasts numerous parks, including Windward Beach Park, offering stunning views of the bay and opportunities for walking, biking, and simply enjoying the outdoors. These spaces are vital for promoting physical activity and reducing stress, both crucial factors in managing blood pressure.
**Places to Live: The Architecture of Well-being**
The type of housing in 08724 significantly influences community health. From single-family homes with spacious yards to multi-unit apartment complexes, the living environment impacts everything from access to healthy food to opportunities for social interaction.
Picture the meticulously planned communities, where sidewalks wind through tree-lined streets, encouraging residents to walk and socialize. Contrast this with areas where housing density is higher, and access to green spaces is limited. These differences can affect the opportunities for physical activity and the overall sense of community, both of which play a role in managing hypertension.
The presence of senior living communities is also a key consideration. These communities often provide amenities like on-site fitness centers and organized activities, which can help residents maintain an active lifestyle and manage their health. However, it's crucial to ensure that these communities also offer access to healthy food options and promote social interaction to combat social isolation, another factor that can contribute to health problems.
**The Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**
Fortunately, Brick is not just a place of potential challenges; it's also a community actively working to improve its health outcomes. Local wellness programs are the seeds of change, striving to empower residents to take control of their well-being.
Consider the local YMCA, which offers a range of programs, from group exercise classes to health screenings. These programs provide accessible opportunities for physical activity and education about healthy living. The township also hosts community health fairs, where residents can receive free blood pressure checks and learn about managing their health.
The presence of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, is also crucial. Access to quality healthcare is essential for early detection and management of hypertension. The availability of these resources, along with educational programs about healthy eating and stress management, are all vital components of a community-wide effort to improve health outcomes.
Imagine a community garden, where residents cultivate their own fruits and vegetables. This initiative not only provides access to fresh, healthy food but also fosters a sense of community and promotes physical activity. These types of grassroots efforts are essential for creating a culture of health within 08724.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Life into the Community**
The abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities in 08724 is a significant asset. From the scenic beauty of the Barnegat Bay to the numerous parks and trails, there are ample opportunities for residents to get active and enjoy the outdoors.
Picture a family enjoying a bike ride along the waterfront, the salty air filling their lungs. Imagine a group of friends playing a game of pickleball at a local park. These activities are not only enjoyable but also vital for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and lowering blood pressure.
The township's commitment to maintaining its parks and trails is a testament to its understanding of the importance of outdoor recreation. These spaces provide a vital outlet for residents to connect with nature, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. The availability of these resources directly impacts the hypertension score, offering a positive influence on community health.
**The Hypertension Score: A Complex Equation**
So, what does all this mean for the hypertension score in 08724? It's a complex equation, influenced by a multitude of factors. The aging demographic, the economic diversity, the availability of healthy food options, the access to healthcare, the opportunities for physical activity, and the overall neighborhood vibe all play a role.
The presence of senior living communities, the local wellness programs, and the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities are all positive factors, offering opportunities to mitigate the risks associated with hypertension. However, challenges remain. The prevalence of fast-food restaurants, the potential for social isolation among seniors, and the pressures of modern life all contribute to the complexity of the health landscape.
**The Path Forward: A Community-Driven Approach**
Improving the hypertension score in 08724 requires a community-driven approach. It's about fostering a culture of health, where residents are empowered to make healthy choices and have access to the resources they need to thrive.
This means supporting local wellness programs, promoting healthy eating initiatives, and ensuring access to quality healthcare. It means creating more opportunities for physical activity, fostering a strong sense of community, and addressing the social determinants of health that impact well-being.
Imagine a future where 08724 is known not only for its scenic beauty and coastal charm but also for its vibrant community health. A place where residents of all ages and backgrounds have the resources and support they need to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. This is the goal, and it's a goal that can be achieved through a collective commitment to building a healthier Brick. The journey begins with understanding the landscape, recognizing the challenges, and celebrating the successes. The hypertension score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's health, and it's a call to action for a healthier future in 08724.
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