The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 37766, La Follette, Tennessee is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 86.69 percent of the residents in 37766 has some form of health insurance. 53.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.21 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 37766 would have to travel an average of 1.85 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Lafollette Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 774 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 37766, La Follette, Tennessee.
Health Scores in 37766, La Follette, Tennessee
Hypertension Score | 4 |
---|---|
People Score | 9 |
Provider Score | 15 |
Hospital Score | 19 |
Travel Score | 49 |
37766 | La Follette | Tennessee | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 36.91 | 36.91 | 52.80 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 14.04 | 14.04 | 13.89 |
Medicare | 23.54 | 23.54 | 18.44 |
Medicaid | 32.78 | 32.78 | 19.58 |
TRICARE | 1.28 | 1.28 | 3.33 |
VA | 55.26 | 55.26 | 52.85 |
Percent Insured in 37766, La Follette, Tennessee
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
37766 | La Follette | Tennessee | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 95.87 | 95.87 | 94.82 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 81.87 | 81.87 | 85.40 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.46 |
## The Heartbeat of 37766: Unlocking a Hypertension Score and Building a Healthier La Follette
The air in La Follette, Tennessee, hangs thick with the scent of coal dust, a whisper of the town's history. It’s a scent that mingles with the sweet perfume of blooming dogwoods in spring and the crisp, clean air that rushes down from the Cumberland Mountains in the fall. This is 37766, a ZIP code that holds within its boundaries a community brimming with resilience, a place where generations have carved out lives amongst the rolling hills and the winding Clinch River. But beneath the surface of small-town charm, a silent threat beats – the threat of hypertension.
This isn't just a statistic; it's the story of Mr. Henderson, a retired coal miner whose calloused hands still reach for his blood pressure monitor every morning. It's the quiet worry in Mrs. Davis's eyes as she prepares a pot of beans and cornbread, knowing the comfort food that connects her to her heritage also carries a hidden risk. It’s the potential for a future where the vibrant tapestry of La Follette’s community is diminished by the shadow of preventable illness.
This is where the "Hypertension Score" comes in. More than just a number, it's a diagnostic tool, a compass pointing us towards a healthier future for 37766. It’s a way to understand the complex factors that contribute to high blood pressure within the community, and, crucially, to identify the levers we can pull to improve it. Let’s dive in.
**Decoding the Demographics: Understanding the Landscape**
The first step in understanding the hypertension landscape is to understand the people. 37766 is a community shaped by its history, its geography, and its people. The population, hovering around 7,000, is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of residents over 65. This aging population, coupled with a history of industrial work and a traditionally rural lifestyle, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities.
Imagine the porch of a weathered farmhouse nestled on a hillside, overlooking a patchwork of fields. This is the essence of La Follette's rural roots. For many, the connection to the land is strong, a legacy passed down through generations. But this connection can also translate to a reliance on traditional diets, often heavy in sodium and fat, and a lifestyle that, while active in its own way, might lack the consistent cardiovascular exercise needed to combat hypertension.
Then there's the legacy of the coal mines. The physical demands of this work, combined with potential exposure to environmental hazards, have left their mark. Many residents have a history of working in physically taxing jobs, which, while building strength, can also contribute to wear and tear on the body, including the cardiovascular system.
The median household income in 37766 is lower than the national average, and access to quality healthcare can be a challenge. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent preventative care, and a greater reliance on emergency services. The economic realities of the community impact access to healthy food options, making it more difficult to maintain a balanced diet.
**Places to Live: The Fabric of the Neighborhoods**
The neighborhoods of La Follette are as diverse as its residents. From the historic homes lining the streets of downtown to the more modern developments that have sprung up around the edges of town, each area has its own distinct personality and challenges.
Picture the quiet streets of the historic district, lined with stately Victorian homes. These neighborhoods often have a strong sense of community, with neighbors who have known each other for decades. But they may also lack the infrastructure for modern healthy living, such as easily accessible walking trails or community gardens.
Then there are the more suburban areas, with their newer homes and manicured lawns. These neighborhoods might offer more opportunities for physical activity, with sidewalks and parks. But they can also be more isolated, with less interaction between neighbors, potentially impacting social support networks, which are crucial for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.
Consider the mobile home parks and more affordable housing options. While providing essential housing, these areas may face additional challenges, such as limited access to grocery stores with fresh produce, or a lack of safe spaces for exercise.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community and Connection**
The heart of La Follette beats with a strong sense of community. The annual county fair, the Friday night football games, the potlucks at the local church – these are the threads that weave the fabric of life in 37766. This sense of connection is a powerful asset in the fight against hypertension.
Imagine the bustling atmosphere of the local farmers market, a place where neighbors gather to share stories and purchase fresh, locally grown produce. This is the kind of initiative that can directly impact the health of the community, providing access to healthier food options and fostering a sense of connection.
Picture the community center, buzzing with activity. Senior citizens playing bingo, children attending after-school programs, and health workshops being offered. These programs are vital in providing education, support, and resources to manage hypertension.
The local churches play a significant role in the community. They often serve as gathering places, offering support networks, and providing access to resources. They can also be instrumental in promoting healthy eating habits and encouraging physical activity.
**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural Beauty**
La Follette is blessed with stunning natural beauty. The Cumberland Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop, and the Clinch River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. Harnessing this natural beauty is key to promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Imagine hiking trails winding through the mountains, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for cardiovascular exercise. These trails can be a powerful tool in encouraging physical activity and reducing stress.
Picture the Clinch River, a haven for kayakers and anglers. Promoting safe and accessible water activities can encourage residents to embrace outdoor recreation and enjoy the benefits of being active.
Consider the potential for creating community gardens, where residents can grow their own fresh produce and learn about healthy eating. These gardens can be a source of both physical activity and nutritional education.
**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation for Health**
The success of any effort to combat hypertension in 37766 hinges on the availability of robust local wellness programs. These programs need to be tailored to the specific needs of the community, addressing the challenges and leveraging the strengths of the local environment.
Imagine a mobile health clinic, traveling to different parts of the community, offering free blood pressure screenings and educational resources. This can be a crucial tool in identifying and managing hypertension.
Picture a partnership between local healthcare providers and community organizations, offering workshops on healthy eating, stress management, and exercise. These workshops can provide the knowledge and skills needed to make positive lifestyle changes.
Consider the role of local schools in promoting healthy habits. Implementing nutrition education programs and encouraging physical activity in schools can have a lasting impact on the health of the next generation.
**The Hypertension Score: A Call to Action**
The "Hypertension Score" for 37766 isn't just a number; it's a roadmap. It's a call to action. It's a challenge to the community to come together, to understand the unique challenges it faces, and to build a healthier future for all.
The score will highlight areas where the community excels and areas where improvement is needed. It will identify the specific risk factors contributing to hypertension, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and limited access to healthcare. It will also identify the resources and assets that can be leveraged to address these challenges, such as the strong sense of community, the natural beauty of the area, and the dedication of local healthcare providers and community organizations.
By understanding the "Hypertension Score" and acting on its insights, La Follette can transform itself. It can become a place where healthy eating is the norm, where physical activity is integrated into daily life, where stress is managed effectively, and where everyone has access to the healthcare they need.
This is the potential of 37766. This is the heartbeat of La Follette. This is the future we can build, together.
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