17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.02 percent of the residents in 17013 has some form of health insurance. 34.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.61 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17013 would have to travel an average of 1.36 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Carlisle. In a 20-mile radius, there are 15,774 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

## The Pulse of Carlisle: Unlocking a Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 17013

The crisp autumn air bites at your cheeks as you stroll past the historic homes lining West Louther Street. Sunlight, filtered through the vibrant leaves of the ancient oaks, dances on the brick facades. This is Carlisle, Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 17013. It’s a town steeped in history, a college town, a place where the past whispers to the present. But beneath the charming exterior, a critical question beats: How healthy is 17013? And, more specifically, how well are its residents managing their blood pressure? Let's delve into the heart of this community and craft a "Hypertension Score" that reflects its unique pulse.

**A Tapestry of People: The Demographics of Well-being**

Before we can gauge the health of 17013, we need to understand its people. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the stories they tell. The population is a vibrant mix. You'll find long-time Carlisle families, their roots intertwined with the town's history, alongside a steady influx of students from Dickinson College, adding a youthful energy. There's a significant presence of veterans, reflecting the town's strong military ties, and a growing Hispanic community, enriching the cultural landscape.

The median age hovers around 30, a testament to the college town vibe, but a closer look reveals a spectrum. Older residents, many of whom have called Carlisle home for decades, are often the backbone of the community, volunteering at local organizations and sharing their wisdom. Younger families, attracted by the affordability and quality of life, are planting roots, breathing new life into the neighborhoods.

Income levels are diverse, reflecting the economic realities of the area. While the presence of Dickinson College and the surrounding professional sectors provide opportunities, pockets of economic disparity exist. This disparity is a crucial factor in understanding hypertension risk. Access to healthy food, quality healthcare, and safe places to exercise can be significantly impacted by socioeconomic factors.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Life Unfolds**

The character of 17013 is defined by its neighborhoods. Imagine the stately homes on North Hanover Street, their manicured lawns and mature trees whispering of generations past. This area exudes a sense of established comfort. Then there's the vibrant energy of the downtown, with its bustling shops, cafes, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the scent of baking bread. This is where the community truly comes alive, a hub for social interaction and cultural experiences.

Further out, the residential streets of the West End offer a more relaxed atmosphere, with families enjoying the peace and quiet. This is where you might find kids playing basketball in driveways, neighbors chatting over fences, and the gentle hum of everyday life.

Each neighborhood contributes to the overall "vibe" of 17013, influencing residents' lifestyle choices and, consequently, their health. The availability of green spaces, the walkability of the area, and the sense of community all play a role in promoting healthy habits.

**Places to Live: The Foundation of a Healthy Home**

The type of housing in 17013 is as varied as its residents. From historic Victorian homes to modern apartments, the options cater to a range of lifestyles and budgets. The availability of affordable housing is a critical factor in community health. Overcrowding, poor housing conditions, and limited access to resources can all contribute to increased stress and health problems, including hypertension.

Consider the impact of living in a home with inadequate heating or cooling, where mold and mildew can thrive. Or the challenges faced by those living in food deserts, where access to fresh produce is limited. These environmental factors can significantly impact a person's ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Good Life**

Carlisle boasts a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities, a crucial element in promoting a healthy lifestyle. Imagine a crisp morning run along the Conodoguinet Creek, the water glistening in the sunlight. The Carlisle Barracks, with its expansive grounds and walking trails, offers a place for exercise and reflection.

The nearby Appalachian Trail provides a challenge for hikers of all levels, offering breathtaking views and a connection with nature. The local parks, like Memorial Park, are bustling with activity, from families enjoying picnics to kids playing on the playground.

These outdoor spaces are not just places for exercise; they are also vital for stress reduction and mental well-being. Access to green spaces has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve overall health.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Helping Hand**

Carlisle recognizes the importance of community health and offers a range of local wellness programs designed to support residents in managing their health. The Carlisle Regional Medical Center provides essential healthcare services, including blood pressure screenings and educational programs.

The YMCA offers fitness classes, swimming pools, and a supportive community environment, encouraging physical activity for all ages and abilities. Local farmers' markets, brimming with fresh, locally sourced produce, provide access to healthy food options, crucial for managing blood pressure.

These programs are the cornerstones of community health, providing resources and support to help residents make informed choices about their health. The accessibility and effectiveness of these programs are critical factors in shaping the Hypertension Score.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Now, let's translate these observations into a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" for 17013. This score wouldn't be a single number, but rather a composite assessment, reflecting the interplay of various factors.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Demographic Data:** Age distribution, income levels, and racial/ethnic composition.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and insurance coverage.
* **Food Environment:** Availability of healthy food options (grocery stores, farmers' markets) and the prevalence of fast-food restaurants.
* **Physical Activity Opportunities:** Access to parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities.
* **Community Resources:** Availability of wellness programs, health education initiatives, and social support networks.
* **Housing Conditions:** Quality of housing, overcrowding, and access to safe and affordable housing.
* **Air Quality:** Environmental factors impacting overall health.

**Hypothetical Score Breakdown (Example):**

* **Demographics & Socioeconomic Factors:** Moderate Risk (due to income disparities and aging population)
* **Access to Healthcare:** Good (with local medical facilities and insurance options)
* **Food Environment:** Moderate (with a mix of healthy and unhealthy food options)
* **Physical Activity Opportunities:** Excellent (with abundant parks, trails, and recreational facilities)
* **Community Resources:** Good (with local wellness programs and community support networks)
* **Housing Conditions:** Moderate (with a range of housing types and affordability challenges)
* **Air Quality:** Good (with generally good air quality in the area)

**Overall Hypothetical Hypertension Score for 17013: Moderate Risk**

This "Moderate Risk" score suggests that while 17013 has many positive attributes, there are areas where improvement is needed. The income disparities and aging population pose challenges, while the abundance of outdoor recreation and community resources offer opportunities for positive change.

**Improving the Score: A Path Forward**

To improve the Hypertension Score and promote better health outcomes in 17013, the community can focus on several key areas:

* **Addressing Socioeconomic Disparities:** Expanding access to affordable housing, job training programs, and financial assistance to improve the economic well-being of all residents.
* **Promoting Healthy Eating:** Supporting local farmers' markets, encouraging the development of healthy food options, and providing nutrition education programs.
* **Enhancing Healthcare Access:** Expanding access to affordable healthcare, particularly for low-income residents, and increasing the availability of blood pressure screenings and management programs.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses, and government agencies to create a comprehensive approach to community health.
* **Promoting Walkability and Bikeability:** Investing in infrastructure that encourages walking and cycling, making it easier for residents to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.
* **Expanding Wellness Programs:** Offering more programs focused on stress management, mental health, and chronic disease prevention.

**The Future of Carlisle: A Healthy Pulse**

The future of 17013 hinges on its ability to address the challenges and leverage its strengths. By focusing on community health, promoting healthy lifestyles, and investing in its residents, Carlisle can ensure that its pulse remains strong and vibrant for generations to come. The Hypertension Score is not just a measure of health; it is a reflection of the community's values, its commitment to its residents, and its vision for a healthy and thriving future. The goal is not just to lower blood pressure, but to build a healthier, more resilient Carlisle, a place where everyone can thrive.