44304, Akron, Ohio Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 44304, Akron, Ohio is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.63 percent of the residents in 44304 has some form of health insurance. 36.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44304 would have to travel an average of 0.39 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Summa Health System. In a 20-mile radius, there are 15,642 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44304, Akron, Ohio.

## The Pulse of 44304: A Hypertension Score and the Fight for a Healthy Heart in Akron

The air in 44304, the heart of Akron's Goodyear Heights and surrounding neighborhoods, hums with a unique energy. It's a blend of the industrial legacy that built this city, the quiet resilience of its long-time residents, and the burgeoning spirit of revitalization. But beneath the surface, a silent battle rages – the fight against hypertension. This article delves into the community health landscape of 44304, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment, a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities in fostering a healthy lifestyle, and a look at the vibrant tapestry of life within this ZIP code.

**The Hypertension Score: A Community Health Pulse Check**

Before we explore the neighborhoods, let's establish a baseline. We can’t offer a precise, statistically validated "Hypertension Score" in the way a medical professional would, but we can create a composite picture based on readily available data, local observations, and expert insights. This "score" is a qualitative assessment, a starting point for understanding the health landscape.

**Factors Considered:**

* **Demographics:** Age distribution, racial and ethnic makeup, socioeconomic indicators (poverty rates, unemployment), and educational attainment significantly impact health outcomes.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies within the community.
* **Food Environment:** Proximity to grocery stores offering fresh produce, access to healthy food options, and the prevalence of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores.
* **Physical Activity Opportunities:** Availability of parks, walking trails, recreational facilities, and safe spaces for outdoor exercise.
* **Social and Environmental Factors:** Air quality, crime rates, housing quality, and social cohesion within the community.
* **Wellness Programs and Resources:** Presence of community health initiatives, health education programs, and support groups.

**44304: A Snapshot**

44304 is a diverse ZIP code, a microcosm of Akron itself. It encompasses Goodyear Heights, a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, and other areas with varying socioeconomic profiles. The population skews slightly older, with a significant percentage of residents in the 45-64 age bracket – a demographic more susceptible to hypertension. The racial makeup is a mix of White, Black, and other ethnicities, reflecting the broader diversity of Akron.

**The Score:** Based on the factors outlined above, we'll assign a qualitative score, ranging from "Poor" to "Excellent" for each category.

* **Demographics: Fair.** While diverse, pockets of poverty and lower educational attainment exist, impacting health outcomes. The aging population presents a challenge.
* **Access to Healthcare: Fair.** While several healthcare providers are located within or near 44304, access can be hampered by transportation challenges and insurance coverage limitations for some residents.
* **Food Environment: Fair.** While grocery stores are present, the prevalence of fast-food restaurants and limited access to fresh produce in some areas pose a challenge.
* **Physical Activity Opportunities: Good.** Goodyear Heights Park, with its walking trails, sports fields, and playground, offers a valuable resource. The proximity to the Towpath Trail is a major asset.
* **Social and Environmental Factors: Fair.** While crime rates are generally manageable, some areas experience higher rates. Air quality can be a concern due to the city's industrial history.
* **Wellness Programs and Resources: Fair.** Several local organizations offer health education and support programs, but greater reach and awareness are needed.

**Overall "Hypertension Score" for 44304: Fair.** This indicates a need for focused interventions to improve community health.

**Neighborhood Vibe and the Pursuit of Wellness**

Let's walk the streets of 44304, absorbing the atmosphere, the pulse of the community.

**Goodyear Heights:** Imagine a crisp autumn afternoon. The leaves are ablaze with color, and the air carries the scent of burning wood from a nearby fireplace. Children's laughter echoes from the playground at Goodyear Heights Park, a vibrant hub of activity. Neighbors chat on their porches, sharing stories and offering friendly greetings. This is a neighborhood where community spirit thrives. The park is more than just green space; it's a place where families gather, seniors stroll, and young athletes hone their skills. The annual Goodyear Heights Festival is a testament to the neighborhood's strong sense of belonging.

**Other Areas:** Venture a little further, and the landscape shifts. The architecture becomes more varied, the streets less manicured. You might see a group of friends gathered on a porch, sharing a meal, or a lone figure walking briskly, headphones on, seeking solace in a solitary stroll. The challenges are more visible here – the boarded-up houses, the vacant lots, the subtle signs of economic hardship. But even in these areas, the spirit of resilience shines through.

**Places to Live: A Diverse Landscape**

44304 offers a range of housing options, from charming, well-maintained homes in Goodyear Heights to more affordable housing in other areas.

* **Goodyear Heights:** Known for its tree-lined streets, well-kept homes, and strong community feel. Houses here tend to be older, with character and charm. The proximity to the park and good schools make it a desirable location for families.
* **Other Areas:** Offer a mix of housing types, including single-family homes, apartments, and duplexes. Housing costs can vary significantly, offering options for different budgets.
* **Considerations:** When choosing a place to live, consider factors such as proximity to grocery stores, access to public transportation, and the availability of green spaces.

**The Fight for a Healthy Heart: Local Wellness Programs and Initiatives**

The good news is that 44304 isn't alone in its fight against hypertension. Several local organizations are working to improve community health.

* **Akron General Medical Center:** Provides a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, cardiology, and health education programs.
* **Community Health Centers:** Offer affordable healthcare services, including preventative care and chronic disease management.
* **Local YMCA and Community Centers:** Offer fitness classes, health screenings, and wellness programs for all ages.
* **Akron-Summit County Public Health:** Provides resources and programs focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, including nutrition education and physical activity initiatives.

**Vignette Scenes: The Power of Small Actions**

Let's paint some scenes, illustrating the power of small actions in the fight against hypertension.

* **Scene 1: The Farmer's Market:** The sun shines down on a vibrant farmer's market, held in a local park. Residents browse colorful displays of fresh produce – plump tomatoes, crisp green beans, and juicy peaches. A community health educator offers free blood pressure screenings and provides information on healthy eating habits. A senior citizen, hesitant at first, is encouraged to get checked, and the results prompt a conversation about lifestyle changes.
* **Scene 2: The Walking Group:** A group of neighbors gathers at Goodyear Heights Park before dawn. They lace up their sneakers and embark on a brisk walk along the trails, the rising sun painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Conversation flows easily, and the shared experience fosters a sense of camaraderie and support. They talk about their health goals, their struggles, and their triumphs.
* **Scene 3: The Community Garden:** A patch of land, once barren, now bursts with life. A community garden, cultivated by local residents, provides access to fresh, organic produce. Volunteers work side-by-side, sharing gardening tips and recipes. The garden is a place of connection, a source of healthy food, and a symbol of community resilience.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Life into the Community**

44304 boasts several outdoor recreation opportunities that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

* **Goodyear Heights Park:** Offers walking trails, sports fields, a playground, and picnic areas.
* **Towpath Trail:** Provides access to miles of scenic walking and biking trails along the historic Ohio & Erie Canal.
* **Local Parks:** Several smaller parks throughout the ZIP code offer green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

**Recommendations: Building a Healthier 44304**

To improve the "Hypertension Score" and promote a healthier lifestyle in 44304, several strategies are crucial:

* **Increase Access to Healthy Food:** Support local farmers markets, promote community gardens, and advocate for the development of grocery stores in underserved areas.
* **Expand Physical Activity Opportunities:** Improve and maintain existing parks, create new walking and biking trails, and support community fitness programs.
* **Enhance Healthcare Access:** Increase the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable healthcare services.
* **Promote Health Education:** Offer health education programs on topics such as healthy eating, exercise, stress management, and chronic disease prevention.
* **Strengthen Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and local businesses.
* **Address Social Determinants of Health:** Tackle issues such as poverty, unemployment, and housing instability, which significantly impact health outcomes.

**The Future of 44304: A Healthy Heartbeat**

The fight against hypertension in 44304 is an ongoing journey. It requires a collective effort – from individuals making healthy choices to community organizations working to create a supportive environment. By focusing on the recommendations above, we can improve the "Hypertension Score," strengthen the community's health, and build a future where every resident of 44304 can thrive. The pulse of 44304 is strong, and with dedication and collaboration, it can beat even stronger, fueled by a healthy heart and a vibrant community.