44614, Canal Fulton, Ohio Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 44614, Canal Fulton, Ohio is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.96 percent of the residents in 44614 has some form of health insurance. 32.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.82 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44614 would have to travel an average of 23.98 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Alliance Community Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,545 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44614, Canal Fulton, Ohio.

## The Pulse of 44614: A Hypertension Scorecard for Canal Fulton's Community Health

The crisp air, the scent of freshly turned earth, the gentle hum of the Tuscarawas River – these are the sensory signatures of Canal Fulton, Ohio, ZIP code 44614. But beyond the picturesque facade of this historic town lies a complex reality, a tapestry woven with threads of community spirit, economic opportunity, and, like any community, the silent threat of hypertension. This isn't just a medical issue; it's a reflection of the very fabric of life here. Let's delve into the pulse of 44614, crafting a "Hypertension Score" that reveals the factors shaping its health landscape.

**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Imagine a Sunday afternoon. The sun casts long shadows across the historic downtown, reflecting off the brick facades of shops and the gleaming chrome of a classic car show. This is Canal Fulton, a town of roughly 5,500 residents, a blend of long-time families and newcomers drawn to its small-town charm. The median age hovers around 43, a demographic that, while not inherently indicative of hypertension risk, does suggest a population entering the years where preventative measures become crucial.

The racial makeup is overwhelmingly white, with a small but growing percentage of residents identifying as belonging to other races or ethnicities. This homogeneity, while offering a strong sense of community, can also present challenges in terms of access to diverse healthcare information and culturally sensitive wellness programs.

Economically, 44614 presents a mixed picture. The median household income is in line with the national average, suggesting a comfortable, if not affluent, lifestyle for many. However, pockets of economic disparity exist, and these vulnerabilities can directly impact health outcomes. Limited access to healthy food options, stress related to financial insecurity, and the inability to afford preventative care can all contribute to increased hypertension risk.

The physical landscape itself plays a significant role. Canal Fulton is nestled along the Tuscarawas River, offering stunning natural beauty. The Towpath Trail, a converted canal path, snakes through the town, providing a vital artery for outdoor recreation. But the town also faces challenges common to many small communities: limited public transportation, reliance on personal vehicles, and a potential for urban sprawl that can reduce walkability and access to amenities.

**Places to Live: The Neighborhood Vibe and its Impact**

The choice of where to live in 44614 is a decision that subtly shapes a resident's health trajectory. Picture the quiet, tree-lined streets of the older neighborhoods, where well-maintained homes stand shoulder-to-shoulder, fostering a sense of belonging. Neighbors chat on their porches, kids play in the yards, and the air is thick with the aroma of freshly baked cookies. This close-knit environment can promote social support, a critical factor in managing stress and adopting healthy habits.

Contrast this with the newer developments, perhaps a bit further from the town center. While offering modern amenities, they might lack the same sense of community, relying more on individual pursuits. The absence of easily accessible sidewalks or bike paths can inadvertently discourage physical activity, a key component in preventing hypertension.

Consider the apartments and rental properties. While offering affordable housing options, these communities might experience higher rates of transience, potentially disrupting social connections and making it harder to establish long-term health habits.

The proximity to essential services also matters. Living within walking distance of a grocery store with fresh produce, a pharmacy, and a primary care physician significantly impacts the ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The convenience of these resources can be a powerful ally in the fight against hypertension.

**The Scorecard: Assessing the Hypertension Risk Factors**

To create our "Hypertension Score," we need to consider several key factors. Each factor will be assessed, and a cumulative picture of the community's vulnerability will emerge.

* **Access to Healthcare:** Does 44614 have an adequate supply of primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable healthcare options? Are there barriers to accessing care, such as transportation limitations or insurance coverage issues?
* **Healthy Food Environment:** Is there easy access to fresh, affordable produce? Are there enough grocery stores offering healthy options, or is the community dominated by fast-food restaurants and convenience stores?
* **Physical Activity Opportunities:** Does the town promote an active lifestyle? Are there parks, walking trails, bike paths, and recreational facilities? Are these resources accessible and well-maintained?
* **Social Support and Community Engagement:** Does the community foster a sense of belonging and social connectedness? Are there opportunities for residents to interact, build relationships, and support each other?
* **Stress Levels and Mental Health:** Are there resources available to address stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges? Is the community aware of the link between mental health and physical well-being?
* **Health Education and Awareness:** Are there programs and initiatives to educate residents about hypertension, its risk factors, and preventative measures? Is information readily available and culturally appropriate?
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Are there significant economic disparities within the community? Does poverty, unemployment, or lack of access to resources contribute to increased health risks?

**Vignette: A Day in the Life and the Hypertension Score**

Let's imagine a typical day in 44614.

* **Morning:** Sarah, a 50-year-old resident, wakes up in her home, a short walk from the Towpath Trail. She enjoys a brisk walk, taking in the beauty of the river and the surrounding nature. This contributes positively to her "Physical Activity" score. However, she stops at a gas station for a quick coffee and a pastry, a less-than-ideal start to her day.
* **Mid-day:** Sarah works at a local office, where she spends most of her day sitting. The lack of opportunities for movement at work negatively impacts her score. She grabs a quick lunch at a fast-food restaurant, further exacerbating the situation.
* **Afternoon:** Sarah visits the local pharmacy to pick up a prescription. She chats with the pharmacist, who provides her with valuable information about managing her blood pressure. This interaction boosts her "Health Education" score.
* **Evening:** Sarah meets her friends for a potluck dinner. They share healthy meals and laugh together. This strong social connection positively impacts her "Social Support" score.

**The Score: A Snapshot of 44614's Health**

Based on this scenario, and a broader understanding of the community, we can tentatively assign a "Hypertension Score" to 44614.

* **Access to Healthcare:** Moderate. While there are healthcare providers, access can be limited by insurance coverage and transportation.
* **Healthy Food Environment:** Moderate. While there are grocery stores, healthy options might be limited, and the prevalence of fast-food restaurants raises concerns.
* **Physical Activity Opportunities:** Good. The Towpath Trail and local parks offer excellent opportunities for exercise.
* **Social Support and Community Engagement:** Strong. The close-knit community fosters social connections.
* **Stress Levels and Mental Health:** Moderate. Resources for mental health are available, but awareness and accessibility could be improved.
* **Health Education and Awareness:** Moderate. Some programs exist, but a more comprehensive approach is needed.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Moderate. While the median income is decent, pockets of economic disparity exist.

**Overall Score: A "C+"**

This score suggests that 44614 has a foundation for good health, but significant improvements are needed to mitigate hypertension risk. The town's strengths lie in its natural beauty, strong community spirit, and access to some healthcare resources. However, challenges remain in the areas of healthy food access, workplace wellness, and comprehensive health education.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Path to a Healthier Future**

The good news is that 44614 has the potential to improve its "Hypertension Score." This requires a concerted effort from the community, local organizations, and healthcare providers.

* **Promoting Healthy Eating:** Partnering with local grocery stores to increase the availability of fresh produce, organizing community gardens, and offering cooking classes that focus on heart-healthy recipes can make a significant impact.
* **Boosting Physical Activity:** Expanding the Towpath Trail, creating more walking and biking paths, and organizing community fitness events can encourage residents to be more active.
* **Strengthening Health Education:** Implementing comprehensive health education programs in schools, workplaces, and community centers, focusing on hypertension prevention, stress management, and healthy lifestyle choices.
* **Improving Access to Healthcare:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare, addressing transportation barriers, and ensuring that healthcare providers are culturally sensitive and accessible to all residents.
* **Fostering Social Connections:** Supporting community events, creating opportunities for social interaction, and promoting a sense of belonging can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

**The Future of 44614: A Vision of Wellness**

Imagine a future where 44614 is a beacon of community health. Picture residents strolling along the Towpath Trail, enjoying the vibrant farmer's market, and participating in wellness workshops. Envision a community where everyone has access to healthy food, affordable healthcare, and the support they need to thrive.

This vision is within reach. By understanding the factors that shape its health landscape, addressing the challenges, and embracing the opportunities, 44614 can become a healthier, more vibrant community for all. The "Hypertension Score" isn't just a number; it's a call to action. It's a challenge to build a future where the pulse of 44614 beats strong, fueled by health, vitality, and the enduring spirit of its people.