The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.80 percent of the residents in 17228 has some form of health insurance. 39.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 17228 would have to travel an average of 5.86 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Fulton County Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 552 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania
Hypertension Score | 69 |
---|---|
People Score | 71 |
Provider Score | 26 |
Hospital Score | 61 |
Travel Score | 61 |
17228 | Harrisonville | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 65.22 | 65.22 | 58.71 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 6.57 | 6.57 | 14.80 |
Medicare | 18.87 | 18.87 | 19.53 |
Medicaid | 23.13 | 23.13 | 19.77 |
TRICARE | 0.65 | 0.65 | 1.43 |
VA | 57.26 | 57.26 | 51.92 |
Percent Insured in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
17228 | Harrisonville | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 96.70 | 96.70 | 95.41 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 90.27 | 90.27 | 92.43 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.56 |
## The Harrisonville Heartbeat: Unpacking the Hypertension Score in 17228
The air in Harrisonville, Pennsylvania, a quiet pocket nestled in the embrace of the Tuscarora Mountains, hums with a certain stillness. It's a place where the rhythm of life seems to slow, where the rustle of leaves in the nearby state forest often drowns out the clamor of the modern world. But beneath this placid surface, a critical health concern simmers: hypertension. This article delves into the community health landscape of ZIP code 17228, dissecting the factors that contribute to a resident's "Hypertension Score" and exploring the opportunities for building a healthier, more vibrant Harrisonville.
**Understanding the Score: A Local Lens**
The "Hypertension Score" isn't a single, easily quantifiable number. Instead, it's a composite picture, a mosaic pieced together from various interlocking elements that influence an individual's risk of developing high blood pressure. In 17228, this score is shaped by a unique blend of demographic realities, environmental influences, and the availability of resources.
**Demographics: The Fabric of Harrisonville**
To understand the Hypertension Score, we must first understand the people. Harrisonville, like many rural communities, has a distinct demographic profile. The population skews older, with a significant percentage of residents in the 55+ age bracket. This naturally elevates the baseline risk for hypertension, as age is a primary risk factor.
Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a sprightly 72-year-old who has lived in her charming, two-story farmhouse on the outskirts of town for over four decades. She's a fixture at the local farmers market, her basket overflowing with fresh produce. But Eleanor, like many of her peers, likely faces a higher risk due to her age.
The community also boasts a strong sense of family, with multi-generational households being relatively common. This can be a double-edged sword. While the support of family can be invaluable in managing health, it can also lead to shared dietary habits and lifestyle choices that might not always be conducive to optimal health.
Furthermore, the economic landscape plays a crucial role. The median household income in 17228 is modest, and access to affordable healthcare can be a significant challenge. This can lead to delayed preventative care and a greater reliance on emergency services, ultimately impacting the Hypertension Score.
**Places to Live: Where Home Meets Health**
The physical environment of Harrisonville significantly impacts residents' health. The majority of homes are single-family dwellings, often with generous yards. This offers opportunities for outdoor activity, a crucial factor in managing blood pressure.
Consider the quiet cul-de-sac where the Johnson family resides. Their kids spend hours playing basketball in the driveway, while Mr. Johnson meticulously tends to his vegetable garden. This active lifestyle, coupled with access to fresh, homegrown produce, contributes positively to their family's health profile.
However, the geographical realities of Harrisonville also present challenges. The lack of readily accessible grocery stores with a wide selection of healthy food options can be a barrier. Residents might find themselves relying on convenience stores or traveling longer distances for healthier choices, impacting their dietary habits and potentially their Hypertension Score.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Connections and Support**
The "neighborhood vibe" in Harrisonville is a powerful force. It's a place where neighbors know each other, where community events like the annual Fall Festival bring everyone together. This strong sense of community can be a buffer against the isolation and stress that can contribute to hypertension.
Picture the weekly coffee klatch at the local diner, a gathering place where residents share stories, offer support, and simply enjoy each other's company. This social connection, this feeling of belonging, is a vital ingredient in the recipe for community health.
However, the limited availability of social and recreational opportunities for certain age groups can be a concern. For instance, younger adults might find fewer avenues for social interaction, potentially leading to stress and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
**Outdoor Recreation: Nature's Prescription**
One of Harrisonville's greatest assets is its proximity to nature. The Tuscarora State Forest, with its hiking trails, fishing streams, and stunning vistas, offers a natural playground for residents. Outdoor activity is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, and Harrisonville is ideally positioned to leverage this advantage.
Imagine a group of friends embarking on a weekend hike, the crisp mountain air filling their lungs, the exertion strengthening their bodies. This access to outdoor recreation can be a powerful antidote to the sedentary lifestyles that often contribute to hypertension.
The challenge lies in making these recreational opportunities accessible and appealing to all residents. Creating accessible trails, organizing group hikes, and promoting the benefits of outdoor activity are crucial steps in harnessing the power of nature for community health.
**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**
While Harrisonville may be a small community, there are glimmers of hope, seeds of change taking root. Local wellness programs, though perhaps limited in scope, are beginning to emerge, offering opportunities to improve the Hypertension Score.
The local library, for example, could host workshops on healthy cooking and nutrition, inviting local chefs or dietitians to share their expertise. The community center could organize walking groups or offer exercise classes tailored to different age groups and fitness levels.
Imagine a group of seniors participating in a gentle yoga class at the community center, their movements guided by a certified instructor. These programs, though small, can make a significant difference in the lives of individual residents and contribute to a broader shift towards a healthier community.
**The Imperative of Action: A Call to Action**
Addressing the Hypertension Score in 17228 requires a multi-pronged approach, a collaborative effort that involves residents, local organizations, and healthcare providers.
* **Promoting Healthy Eating:** Increasing access to affordable, healthy food options is paramount. This could involve supporting the local farmers market, encouraging community gardens, and advocating for the expansion of grocery stores with a wider selection of fresh produce.
* **Encouraging Physical Activity:** Promoting outdoor recreation is crucial. This could involve developing accessible trails, organizing group activities, and educating residents about the benefits of exercise.
* **Strengthening Social Connections:** Fostering a sense of community is essential. This could involve supporting community events, creating opportunities for social interaction, and addressing the needs of all age groups.
* **Expanding Access to Healthcare:** Improving access to affordable healthcare is critical. This could involve advocating for telehealth services, supporting local clinics, and educating residents about available resources.
* **Raising Awareness:** Educating residents about hypertension, its risk factors, and preventative measures is vital. This could involve community health fairs, educational workshops, and targeted outreach programs.
**The Harrisonville Heartbeat: A Resilient Community**
The Hypertension Score in 17228 is a complex tapestry woven from the threads of demographics, environment, social connections, and access to resources. While challenges exist, the community possesses a remarkable resilience, a deep-seated sense of belonging, and a strong connection to nature.
The future of community health in Harrisonville hinges on the collective will of its residents. By embracing a proactive approach, by fostering collaboration, and by prioritizing the well-being of its members, Harrisonville can cultivate a healthier, more vibrant future. The heartbeat of Harrisonville, though sometimes quiet, is strong, and with concerted effort, it can beat even stronger, a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of its people. The journey towards a lower Hypertension Score is not just a medical imperative; it's a testament to the community's commitment to a life lived fully, healthily, and in harmony with the beautiful landscape that surrounds them.
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