44266, Ravenna, Ohio Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 44266, Ravenna, Ohio is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.35 percent of the residents in 44266 has some form of health insurance. 42.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.37 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44266 would have to travel an average of 1.73 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, University Hospitals Portage Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,737 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44266, Ravenna, Ohio.

## Ravenna Rhythms: Unpacking the Hypertension Score in 44266

The air in Ravenna, Ohio, hums with a particular energy. It’s a blend of the past whispering from brick storefronts on Main Street, the present buzzing from the university students strolling by, and the future, etched on the faces of families pushing strollers through the park. This energy, this life force, is inextricably linked to the community's health. And in the context of hypertension – a silent, insidious threat – understanding the health of 44266, Ravenna's ZIP code, is paramount.

Let's talk numbers. The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather a conceptual framework. It’s a composite picture, a mosaic of factors that contribute to, or detract from, the prevalence of high blood pressure within a community. It’s about more than just blood pressure readings; it’s about the environment, the resources, the opportunities, and the choices that shape the health of its residents.

**The Demographic Dance: A Snapshot of 44266**

Ravenna, nestled in the heart of Portage County, is a town of roughly 11,000 souls. The demographics paint a nuanced picture. The median age hovers around 38, suggesting a blend of established families and a younger generation. The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a growing presence of African American and Hispanic populations. This diversity, though a strength, also presents complexities. Different ethnic groups often face varying levels of access to healthcare, dietary habits, and cultural influences that impact their risk of hypertension.

The economic landscape is a crucial player. The median household income in 44266 is a touch below the national average. This can translate to challenges: limited access to fresh, affordable food, the stress of financial insecurity, and potential trade-offs between healthcare and other essential needs. Think of the single mother, juggling two jobs, struggling to afford healthy groceries while navigating the demands of raising children. Her daily life, her stress levels, her access to preventative care – all these factors weave into the fabric of her hypertension risk.

The educational attainment level is another key piece. While a significant portion of the population holds a high school diploma, the percentage with a bachelor's degree is slightly lower than the national average. Education often correlates with health literacy – the ability to understand and act on health information. This understanding is vital for navigating preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and making informed lifestyle choices.

**Living Spaces: Where the Heart of Ravenna Beats**

The "where" of Ravenna significantly influences the "how" of its residents' health. Housing options range from historic homes with character-filled porches to modern apartments catering to the university crowd. The availability of affordable, safe, and well-maintained housing is a fundamental building block for community health.

Imagine a family living in a cramped apartment, struggling with mold and inadequate ventilation. This environment can exacerbate respiratory issues, potentially impacting sleep quality and increasing stress levels, all of which can contribute to hypertension. Conversely, consider a homeowner with a spacious yard, a place to garden, a safe space for outdoor recreation. This provides opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and access to fresh produce – all protective factors against hypertension.

The presence of green spaces is another vital element. Ravenna is fortunate to have parks like Towner's Woods and West Main Street Park. These spaces offer opportunities for walking, running, playing, and simply connecting with nature. They are vital for physical activity, stress reduction, and fostering a sense of community. Picture a group of seniors, meeting regularly for a morning walk in the park, their laughter echoing through the trees, their blood pressure benefiting from the exercise and social connection.

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

The "vibe" of a neighborhood – the sense of community, the social connections – is a powerful force in shaping health outcomes. Ravenna has a distinct small-town feel, a place where neighbors know each other, where local businesses thrive, and where community events bring people together.

Think of the annual Ravenna Balloon A-Fair, a vibrant spectacle that draws crowds from across the region. This event fosters a sense of belonging, a shared experience that strengthens social bonds. Strong social connections are a buffer against stress, a crucial factor in managing hypertension.

The presence of local businesses, like the bustling cafes and the friendly grocery stores, also plays a role. These establishments provide opportunities for social interaction, for building relationships, and for accessing healthy food options. Imagine a resident, chatting with the friendly barista at the local coffee shop, sharing a laugh, and feeling a sense of belonging. This simple interaction can contribute to a sense of well-being that helps protect against chronic diseases.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Ravenna is not a passive participant in the health of its residents. Several local wellness programs are working to address the challenges of hypertension and promote healthy lifestyles.

The Portage County Health District is a key player, offering a range of services, from blood pressure screenings to educational programs on healthy eating and exercise. These programs are often targeted at specific populations, such as seniors or those with chronic conditions, providing vital support and resources.

The local YMCA and community centers often host fitness classes, providing affordable opportunities for physical activity. Picture a group of Ravenna residents, sweating it out in a Zumba class, their bodies moving to the rhythm, their blood pressure benefiting from the exercise and the camaraderie.

The presence of farmers' markets, like the one held downtown, is another positive sign. These markets provide access to fresh, locally grown produce, encouraging healthy eating habits. Imagine a resident, browsing the colorful stalls, selecting fresh vegetables for a healthy meal, and feeling a sense of empowerment over their health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Benefits**

Ravenna's proximity to natural beauty is a significant asset. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is within easy reach, offering hiking trails, biking paths, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Imagine a family, spending a Saturday hiking through the woods, the fresh air filling their lungs, their bodies moving, their stress melting away. This is a powerful antidote to the sedentary lifestyle and the stresses that contribute to hypertension.

The Portage Park District also maintains several trails and parks within the community, providing accessible options for walking, running, and biking. These spaces are vital for physical activity, stress reduction, and connecting with nature.

**The Hypertension Score: A Living Document**

The "Hypertension Score" for 44266 is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's health, constantly evolving based on the interplay of demographics, living conditions, neighborhood vibe, local programs, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

To improve the score, Ravenna must continue to invest in its residents. This means:

* **Strengthening access to affordable healthcare:** Expanding access to preventative care, screenings, and management of chronic conditions.
* **Promoting healthy eating:** Supporting farmers' markets, encouraging local food initiatives, and providing nutrition education.
* **Encouraging physical activity:** Maintaining and expanding green spaces, promoting walking and biking, and offering affordable fitness programs.
* **Fostering a strong sense of community:** Supporting local businesses, encouraging community events, and building social connections.
* **Addressing social determinants of health:** Tackling issues like housing insecurity, poverty, and food deserts.

The journey to a healthier Ravenna is a collective effort. It requires collaboration between residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. It demands a commitment to creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, to live a long, healthy, and vibrant life.

The energy of Ravenna, the rhythms of its streets, the laughter in its parks – these are the ingredients that will shape its future. And by understanding the factors that contribute to its "Hypertension Score," Ravenna can write a healthier, more vibrant chapter in its story, a story where every resident has the chance to breathe easy, to live fully, and to experience the true meaning of well-being. The future of 44266 is not just about managing blood pressure; it's about nurturing a community where health is not just a goal, but a way of life.