13902, Binghamton, New York Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 13902, Binghamton, New York is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.87 percent of the residents in 13902 has some form of health insurance. 5.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.68 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 13902 would have to travel an average of 0.72 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,149 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 13902, Binghamton, New York.

## The Pulse of 13902: Unpacking the Hypertension Score and Building a Healthier Binghamton

The air in 13902, Binghamton, New York, hangs thick with the scent of late summer – a blend of freshly cut grass, the lingering sweetness of the nearby Chenango River, and the subtle tang of exhaust from the steady flow of traffic along Court Street. This ZIP code, a microcosm of the city, is a place of contrasts. Victorian homes stand shoulder-to-shoulder with modern apartment complexes. Bustling commercial corridors give way to quiet residential streets shaded by ancient maples. And, like any community, it grapples with its own unique set of challenges, one of the most pressing being hypertension, or high blood pressure.

Understanding the “Hypertension Score” of 13902 isn’t just about crunching numbers; it's about understanding the lived experiences of its residents, the factors that shape their health, and the potential pathways toward a healthier future. We're not talking about a sterile report; we're talking about a story, a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of community life.

**The Demographics: A Snapshot of the People**

To truly grasp the hypertension landscape, we need to look at the people who call 13902 home. This ZIP code, encompassing much of downtown Binghamton and extending into surrounding neighborhoods, boasts a diverse population. According to recent data, the area is a melting pot, with a significant percentage of residents identifying as Black or African American, alongside a substantial white population, and growing representation from Hispanic and Asian communities. This diversity, while a strength, also presents unique health challenges.

Imagine a young family, the Hernandezes, arriving in Binghamton, eager to start a new chapter. They've secured an apartment in the heart of the city, drawn by the promise of affordable housing and proximity to work. They're juggling the demands of careers, raising two energetic children, and navigating a new environment. They may not have the same access to fresh, affordable produce as residents in wealthier areas, potentially impacting their dietary habits and, over time, their cardiovascular health.

Then there’s Mr. Johnson, a lifelong resident of the West Side, a neighborhood steeped in history. He's seen the city evolve, witnessed the ebb and flow of economic fortunes. He remembers a time when corner stores offered a wider selection of healthy options. Now, he navigates the challenges of aging, managing his health conditions, and staying connected to a community that’s constantly shifting. He might be less likely to have easy access to regular check-ups or to readily embrace new health initiatives.

The age distribution also plays a significant role. 13902 has a sizable population of young adults, including a large student population from nearby Binghamton University. However, there is also a growing senior population, often facing the challenges of chronic diseases and limited mobility.

These demographic factors – race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, age, and access to resources – all intertwine to influence the hypertension score. They paint a complex picture of the community's health landscape.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Life Unfolds**

The “vibe” of 13902 is a crucial element. It's the intangible feeling that permeates the streets, the energy that pulses through the community. The neighborhood's character impacts residents’ daily choices and, ultimately, their health.

Picture the bustling sidewalks along Court Street, lined with restaurants, shops, and the constant hum of activity. This is the heart of the city, a place where people gather, connect, and build relationships. But the vibrancy of this commercial corridor can sometimes mask the challenges that exist just a few blocks away.

Consider the quiet residential streets, like those near Recreation Park. The stately homes, many with front porches perfect for a summer evening, offer a sense of community. But the availability of green spaces, access to safe walking routes, and the presence of community gardens can vary significantly within the ZIP code.

The availability of affordable housing is another key factor. The pressure to make ends meet can lead to stress, a known contributor to high blood pressure. The quality of housing, too, plays a role. Older homes may have lead paint or other environmental hazards that can negatively impact health.

The presence of community resources, like the YMCA, the Broome County Public Library, and various faith-based organizations, can also influence the neighborhood's health profile. These institutions often serve as vital hubs for social support, health education, and access to wellness programs.

**Places to Live: A Patchwork of Housing**

The housing landscape in 13902 is as diverse as its population. From historic Victorian homes to modern apartment complexes, the options are varied. The quality and affordability of housing directly impact residents’ health and well-being.

Imagine a young professional couple, drawn to the vibrant energy of downtown, renting a sleek apartment with a view of the Susquehanna River. They might have easy access to a gym, healthy food options, and the convenience of city living. Their lifestyle, however, might be more sedentary, with less time for outdoor recreation.

Then there’s a family living in a more affordable apartment complex on the West Side. They may face challenges related to overcrowding, inadequate access to healthy food, and limited opportunities for physical activity. These factors can contribute to a higher risk of developing hypertension.

The availability of affordable, safe, and well-maintained housing is crucial for community health. Initiatives that promote homeownership, improve housing quality, and address housing instability can have a significant impact on reducing the hypertension score.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Movement**

Fortunately, 13902 is blessed with access to outdoor recreation. The Chenango River, with its scenic trails and parks, offers opportunities for walking, biking, and simply enjoying nature. Recreation Park, a sprawling green space, provides a place for families to gather, children to play, and residents to exercise.

Picture a group of friends meeting at the Riverwalk on a Saturday morning, lacing up their sneakers for a brisk walk along the river. The fresh air, the sunlight, and the camaraderie are all beneficial for their physical and mental health.

However, access to these recreational opportunities isn't always equal. Some neighborhoods may lack safe walking routes, well-maintained parks, or easy access to public transportation to reach these spaces.

Efforts to improve access to outdoor recreation, such as expanding bike lanes, creating community gardens, and improving park infrastructure, can significantly contribute to a healthier community.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Several local wellness programs are already taking root in 13902, offering a glimmer of hope and a pathway toward a healthier future.

Imagine a free health screening event at the local community center, where residents can get their blood pressure checked, receive information about healthy eating, and connect with healthcare providers.

Consider the efforts of local organizations to promote healthy eating habits, such as community gardens that provide access to fresh produce or cooking classes that teach residents how to prepare nutritious meals.

The YMCA, a cornerstone of the community, offers fitness classes, health education programs, and a supportive environment for residents of all ages. Faith-based organizations often provide health ministries, offering support and resources to their congregations.

These local wellness programs are the seeds of change, the building blocks of a healthier community. They play a crucial role in raising awareness about hypertension, providing access to resources, and empowering residents to take control of their health.

**The Path Forward: Building a Healthier 13902**

Improving the hypertension score in 13902 requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the complex interplay of factors that influence health.

**Here are some key strategies:**

* **Increase access to affordable healthcare:** This includes promoting health insurance enrollment, expanding access to primary care providers, and ensuring that residents have access to affordable medications.
* **Promote healthy eating habits:** This can be achieved through community gardens, farmers' markets, nutrition education programs, and initiatives that make healthy food more accessible and affordable.
* **Encourage physical activity:** This includes creating safe walking and biking routes, improving park infrastructure, and promoting participation in recreational activities.
* **Address social determinants of health:** This means tackling issues such as poverty, housing instability, and lack of access to education and employment opportunities.
* **Strengthen community partnerships:** Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and residents is essential for creating sustainable change.
* **Raise awareness and education:** Community health initiatives need to focus on raising awareness about hypertension, educating residents about risk factors, and empowering them to take proactive steps to manage their health.

The journey towards a healthier 13902 will be a marathon, not a sprint. It will require sustained effort, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the well-being of its residents. But with each step forward, with each healthy meal shared, with each walk along the river, the pulse of 13902 will grow stronger, more vibrant, and more resilient. The Hypertension Score, a reflection of the community's health, will begin to tell a new story – a story of progress, of hope, and of a community working together to build a healthier future.