38574, Monterey, Tennessee Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 38574, Monterey, Tennessee is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.16 percent of the residents in 38574 has some form of health insurance. 49.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.25 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 38574 would have to travel an average of 17.47 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Cumberland Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,057 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 38574, Monterey, Tennessee.

## The Heartbeat of Monterey: Unpacking the Hypertension Score in 38574

The wind whispers secrets through the pines that crown Monterey, Tennessee. It carries the scent of woodsmoke, the distant rumble of a logging truck, and the quiet determination that hums beneath the surface of this close-knit community. But beyond the picturesque landscapes and the friendly faces, a silent threat lingers: hypertension. This isn't just a medical term; it's a reflection of the community's overall health, a score written in the very fabric of 38574. Let’s dive in and see what’s really going on.

**Understanding the Score: Beyond the Numbers**

We can't just slap a number on Monterey and call it a day. The "Hypertension Score" isn't a single, easily digestible statistic. It’s a complex tapestry woven from demographics, lifestyle choices, access to resources, and the very spirit of the people who call this place home. It's about understanding the pressures – both physical and societal – that contribute to elevated blood pressure and, more importantly, how we can lower that score, one heartbeat at a time.

**The Demographics: A Portrait of Monterey**

Monterey, tucked into the Cumberland Plateau, is a town that wears its history on its sleeve. The 2020 census paints a picture: a population hovering around 3,000, a majority white community, with a significant portion of residents over 65. This aging demographic is a crucial factor in the hypertension equation. As we age, our blood vessels naturally stiffen, increasing the risk.

The economic landscape is also a key player. While manufacturing and tourism provide employment opportunities, the median household income in Monterey is lower than the national average. This can translate to limited access to healthy food options, preventative healthcare, and stress-reducing activities. The strain of financial insecurity, of making ends meet, can silently elevate blood pressure.

**Places to Live: Where Home is, and What it Means**

Drive through Monterey, and you'll see a diverse range of homes. There are tidy bungalows with well-tended gardens, reflecting a pride of ownership and a connection to the land. There are mobile homes, nestled amongst the trees, offering affordable housing, but potentially lacking the amenities that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Consider the quiet streets near the historic downtown square, where neighbors greet each other with a wave and a smile. These areas often foster a sense of community, a crucial buffer against the isolation that can contribute to stress and hypertension. The availability of sidewalks and green spaces in these neighborhoods encourages walking and outdoor activity, vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

Further out, the sprawling rural properties offer a different kind of appeal – space, privacy, and a connection to nature. But these areas can also present challenges: longer distances to grocery stores, limited access to public transportation, and the potential for social isolation.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Connection**

Monterey's vibe is undeniably friendly, a characteristic that can be both a strength and a challenge when it comes to community health. The close-knit nature of the community means that word-of-mouth spreads quickly, both for good and for bad. A shared understanding of health risks, and a collective commitment to healthy choices, can be powerful tools.

Picture this: The annual Monterey Homecoming, a vibrant celebration that brings the entire town together. The air is thick with the aroma of fried chicken and barbecue. While these gatherings foster social connection, they also highlight the importance of balanced eating and portion control. The challenge is to balance the joy of community with the need for mindful choices.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Monterey: The Seeds of Change**

The good news is that Monterey is ripe for change. The seeds of a healthier lifestyle are already being sown.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Growing Force**

The Putnam County Health Department plays a vital role in the community. They offer health screenings, educational programs, and resources for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Imagine a free blood pressure clinic held at the Monterey Senior Center, a place where residents can receive regular check-ups and learn about lifestyle modifications.

The local schools are also stepping up. They can integrate health and wellness education into the curriculum, teaching children the importance of healthy eating and physical activity from a young age. Imagine school gardens, where students learn to grow their own fruits and vegetables, fostering a lifelong appreciation for healthy food.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**

Monterey is blessed with natural beauty, a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. The nearby Standing Stone State Park offers hiking trails, fishing, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Imagine families spending weekends exploring the trails, breathing in the fresh air, and connecting with nature.

The town's parks, like the Monterey City Park, provide spaces for walking, playing, and socializing. The challenge is to ensure these spaces are well-maintained, accessible, and welcoming to all residents. Consider the potential for creating walking trails, fitness stations, and community gardens within the park, further promoting physical activity and healthy eating.

**The Food Landscape: Nourishing the Body and Soul**

The availability of healthy food options is a critical factor in the hypertension score. While Monterey has grocery stores, the selection of fresh produce and healthy choices can be limited. The challenge is to increase access to nutritious food.

Consider the potential for a farmers market, where local farmers can sell their fresh produce directly to the community. Imagine community gardens, where residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and promoting healthy eating habits.

**The Road Ahead: A Collective Effort**

Lowering the hypertension score in Monterey requires a multi-pronged approach. It’s not just about individual choices; it’s about creating a supportive environment that empowers residents to make healthy choices.

This means:

* **Strengthening community partnerships:** Collaborating between the health department, schools, local businesses, and community organizations.
* **Increasing access to healthcare:** Ensuring that residents have access to affordable healthcare, including regular check-ups and preventative screenings.
* **Promoting healthy eating:** Supporting farmers markets, community gardens, and educational programs on healthy cooking and nutrition.
* **Encouraging physical activity:** Improving access to parks, trails, and recreational facilities, and promoting walking and other forms of exercise.
* **Addressing social determinants of health:** Recognizing and addressing the social and economic factors that contribute to hypertension, such as poverty, lack of access to education, and social isolation.

**A Call to Action: The Heart of Monterey**

The "Hypertension Score" in 38574 is not a fixed destiny. It's a challenge, an opportunity, a call to action. It’s a chance to build a healthier, more vibrant community, one heartbeat at a time.

Imagine a Monterey where:

* Children learn about healthy eating and exercise in school.
* Families gather at the park for picnics and outdoor activities.
* Seniors have access to regular health screenings and support groups.
* Local businesses offer healthy food options and promote employee wellness.
* The community comes together to support each other and build a healthier future.

The wind still whispers through the pines, but now, it carries a new message: the promise of a healthier Monterey, a community where the heartbeat is strong, the spirit is resilient, and the future is bright. The score is changing, and the people of 38574 are leading the way.