The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 08741, Pine Beach, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 90.27 percent of the residents in 08741 has some form of health insurance. 27.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.16 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 08741 would have to travel an average of 9.98 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,266 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 08741, Pine Beach, New Jersey.
Health Scores in 08741, Pine Beach, New Jersey
Hypertension Score | 80 |
---|---|
People Score | 76 |
Provider Score | 62 |
Hospital Score | 42 |
Travel Score | 58 |
08741 | Pine Beach | New Jersey | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 65.25 | 65.25 | 61.27 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 14.02 | 14.02 | 12.13 |
Medicare | 20.26 | 20.26 | 16.80 |
Medicaid | 9.77 | 9.77 | 17.08 |
TRICARE | 1.09 | 1.09 | 0.98 |
VA | 52.21 | 52.21 | 51.38 |
Percent Insured in 08741, Pine Beach, New Jersey
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
08741 | Pine Beach | New Jersey | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 83.37 | 83.37 | 96.04 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 90.01 | 90.01 | 89.33 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 96.27 | 96.27 | 98.94 |
## The Pine Beach Pulse: Unpacking Hypertension in 08741 - A Community's Health Score
The salt-laced air of Barnegat Bay whispers through Pine Beach, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08741), carrying the scent of pine needles and the distant rumble of the Garden State Parkway. This is a town where generations have carved out lives, where the rhythm of the seasons dictates the pace, and where community health is a tapestry woven from shared experiences and individual choices. But beneath the idyllic surface, a silent threat simmers: hypertension, or high blood pressure. This isn't just a medical statistic; it's a reflection of the community's well-being, a score etched onto the very fabric of Pine Beach life.
Let's peel back the layers and explore the Pine Beach pulse, examining the factors that contribute to, and combat, this pervasive health challenge.
**The Demographics: A Snapshot of 08741**
Pine Beach is a small borough, a peninsula jutting into the bay, with a population hovering around 2,000. The demographic profile is largely white, with a significant senior population. This aging demographic is a key consideration when discussing hypertension. As we age, our blood vessels naturally lose elasticity, increasing the risk of elevated blood pressure.
Beyond age, socioeconomic factors play a crucial role. The median household income in 08741 is generally considered middle-class, but the cost of living in this coastal region can be significant. This can impact access to healthy food options, healthcare, and the time available for preventative care.
Consider Mrs. Gable, a lifelong Pine Beach resident. She’s seen the town evolve, from a quiet fishing village to a more bustling community. Now in her late 70s, she enjoys her morning walks along the bay, but she also manages her blood pressure medication. Her story is not unique; it’s a thread in the larger narrative of community health in 08741.
**Places to Live: The Foundation of Wellbeing**
The character of a community is often reflected in its housing. In Pine Beach, you’ll find a mix of charming, older homes with character, alongside more modern constructions. The proximity to the bay is a major draw, with many homes boasting water views and easy access to boating and fishing.
The physical environment impacts health in subtle but significant ways. Walkability is a crucial factor. Are residents able to easily access essential services like the local pharmacy, the grocery store, or the post office on foot? The more walkable a community, the more opportunities for incidental exercise. Pine Beach, with its compact size and relatively flat terrain, offers a good degree of walkability, particularly in the central areas.
Picture a family, the Millers, settling into their new home on a quiet street. Their children have easy access to the local playground and the bay. This access to outdoor spaces is invaluable for promoting a healthy lifestyle, offering opportunities for physical activity and stress reduction.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Social Compass**
The "vibe" of a neighborhood is intangible, yet it profoundly influences health. Pine Beach boasts a strong sense of community. There's a palpable feeling of neighborliness, where people know each other, look out for each other, and participate in local events. This social cohesion is a powerful buffer against stress, a significant contributor to hypertension.
Think of the annual Pine Beach Day, a celebration of the town's heritage, where residents gather for games, food, and music. These events foster social connections, reduce isolation, and create a sense of belonging. This social fabric is a crucial component of community health, providing a support system that can encourage healthy behaviors.
Consider Mr. Rodriguez, a recent transplant to Pine Beach. He was initially drawn to the quiet charm, but he quickly discovered the welcoming nature of the community. He joined the local volunteer fire department, instantly integrating himself into the social network. This sense of belonging helps him manage the stress of his demanding job, contributing to his overall well-being.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Bay's Bounty**
Pine Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The bay offers endless opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The nearby parks and trails provide options for hiking and biking. Access to these recreational activities is a major asset in the fight against hypertension.
Imagine a group of friends, the "Bay Buddies," gathering for a weekly kayaking excursion. The physical activity, combined with the fresh air and the beauty of the bay, is a potent combination for lowering blood pressure and improving overall health.
The availability of these outdoor spaces encourages a culture of physical activity. This is vital, as regular exercise is a cornerstone of managing and preventing hypertension.
**Healthy Lifestyle in Pine Beach: The Everyday Choices**
The battle against hypertension is fought on a daily basis, through individual choices. The availability of healthy food options is critical. While Pine Beach has a small selection of grocery stores, access to fresh produce can be a challenge. This is where community initiatives can play a vital role.
Consider the potential for a community garden, where residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables. This would not only provide access to healthy food but also foster a sense of community and promote physical activity.
The availability of information and education is also crucial. Are residents aware of the risks of hypertension? Do they understand the importance of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management?
**Local Wellness Programs: The Community's Arsenal**
Pine Beach has a strong foundation for promoting community health. The local government, the community center, and the volunteer organizations all have a role to play.
The local senior center, for example, could offer blood pressure screenings, educational workshops on healthy eating, and exercise classes specifically designed for seniors.
The local pharmacy could partner with healthcare providers to offer medication management programs and provide information on hypertension prevention.
Imagine a collaborative effort between the local schools, the community center, and the healthcare providers to educate children and their families about healthy lifestyles. This would create a ripple effect, influencing healthy habits across generations.
**The Hypertension Score: A Call to Action**
The "Hypertension Score" for Pine Beach (08741) is not a static number. It’s a dynamic assessment of the community's health, a reflection of the interplay between demographics, environment, social factors, and individual choices.
The score is influenced by the aging population, the challenges of accessing healthy food options, and the need for increased awareness of hypertension. However, the score is also buoyed by the strong sense of community, the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, and the potential for collaborative wellness programs.
The goal is to improve the score, to create a healthier community where hypertension is better managed and prevented. This requires a multi-pronged approach:
* **Increased access to healthy food:** Supporting local farmers markets, promoting community gardens, and advocating for healthier food options in local stores.
* **Enhanced awareness and education:** Implementing community-wide campaigns to educate residents about hypertension, its risks, and preventative measures.
* **Expanded wellness programs:** Partnering with local healthcare providers, the senior center, and other community organizations to offer blood pressure screenings, exercise classes, and educational workshops.
* **Strengthening social connections:** Fostering community events and initiatives that promote social cohesion and reduce isolation.
* **Advocating for walkability and bike-ability:** Ensuring that the community remains accessible for pedestrians and cyclists.
The journey to a healthier Pine Beach requires the collective effort of its residents, its leaders, and its healthcare providers. It's a journey that will be measured not just in medical statistics, but in the smiles of neighbors, the laughter of children playing in the park, and the vibrant pulse of a community thriving on the shores of Barnegat Bay. The future of Pine Beach’s health is not just a medical concern; it's a shared responsibility, a testament to the enduring spirit of this coastal gem. The score is not just a number; it's a living, breathing story, constantly being written by the people of 08741.
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