The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36024, Eclectic, Alabama is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 88.26 percent of the residents in 36024 has some form of health insurance. 38.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.42 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 36024 would have to travel an average of 12.10 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Community Hospital Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 41 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 36024, Eclectic, Alabama.
Health Scores in 36024, Eclectic, Alabama
Lung Cancer Score | 18 |
---|---|
People Score | 70 |
Provider Score | 13 |
Hospital Score | 19 |
Travel Score | 39 |
36024 | Eclectic | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 55.51 | 55.51 | 53.03 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 13.96 | 13.96 | 13.43 |
Medicare | 25.80 | 25.80 | 19.93 |
Medicaid | 15.02 | 15.02 | 19.33 |
TRICARE | 3.98 | 3.98 | 4.57 |
VA | 57.82 | 57.82 | 53.18 |
Percent Insured in 36024, Eclectic, Alabama
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
36024 | Eclectic | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 97.92 | 97.92 | 96.59 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 80.94 | 80.94 | 85.09 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.54 |
## The Breath of Eclectic: Unpacking the Lung Cancer Score in 36024
The Alabama sun beats down on the red clay of Eclectic, a town where the air itself seems to hum with a quiet energy. You can feel it in the way the wind whispers through the pines lining Lake Martin, in the easy smiles exchanged at the local Piggly Wiggly, and in the unwavering spirit of a community that has weathered generations. But beneath this surface of small-town charm, a critical question lingers: How healthy are the lungs of Eclectic?
This isn't just about individuals; it's about the very breath of the community. We're diving deep into the concept of a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 36024, not a rigid, scientific metric, but a holistic understanding of the factors that contribute to lung health, and ultimately, the potential for lung cancer risk. It’s a look at the community's health, lifestyle, and the environment that shapes it.
**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**
Eclectic, nestled in Elmore County, is a tapestry woven with threads of history and hope. The 2020 Census paints a picture of a predominantly white population, with a growing Hispanic/Latino presence adding vibrant hues to the community. The median age skews slightly older, reflecting a blend of established families and retirees drawn to the tranquility of the area.
The landscape itself is a powerful force. Lake Martin, a shimmering jewel, defines much of the town's identity. Its vast expanse offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, a source of fresh air, and a visual reminder of the beauty that surrounds them. The rolling hills, dotted with family farms and pockets of woodland, provide a sense of space and connection to nature.
This environment, while beautiful, also presents challenges. The proximity to agricultural land, while supporting local livelihoods, can introduce potential air quality concerns related to pesticide use and seasonal burning. Understanding these subtle nuances is crucial to interpreting our "Lung Cancer Score."
**Places to Live: A Spectrum of Choices**
The housing landscape in 36024 is as diverse as the community itself. You'll find everything from charming, historic homes in the heart of Eclectic to sprawling lakefront properties with breathtaking views. The availability of affordable housing is a significant factor in overall community health. Residents with stable housing are better positioned to prioritize their well-being.
Imagine a young family, drawn to the area's affordability and the promise of a slower pace of life. They might choose a comfortable home in a newer subdivision, enjoying the convenience of modern amenities. Or perhaps a retiree, seeking peace and quiet, finds solace in a cozy cottage overlooking the lake. Each choice reflects a different lifestyle, each with its own potential impact on lung health.
The availability of affordable housing is vital. Overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, and exposure to environmental hazards in substandard housing can all contribute to increased risk. The presence of well-maintained public spaces, like parks and playgrounds, also plays a crucial role. These areas encourage physical activity and provide opportunities for residents to connect with nature, fostering a healthier lifestyle.
**The Vibe: A Tapestry of Community Spirit**
The "vibe" of Eclectic is a key component of our Lung Cancer Score. It’s the intangible energy that binds the community together, the sense of belonging that can profoundly impact individual well-being.
Picture the Eclectic High School football team, the Panthers, under Friday night lights. The roar of the crowd, the shared excitement, the sense of unity – these are powerful antidotes to the isolation that can contribute to unhealthy habits.
Or imagine the annual Eclectic Day celebration, a vibrant gathering where neighbors connect, share stories, and celebrate their shared heritage. These moments of connection foster a sense of social support, a crucial buffer against stress and other factors that can negatively impact health.
The prevalence of local businesses also contributes to the community's vibe. A thriving downtown, with its independent shops and restaurants, creates a sense of vibrancy and opportunity. The presence of a local grocery store with fresh produce is a tangible indicator of access to healthy food choices.
**Healthy Lifestyle in Eclectic: Opportunities and Challenges**
The pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in 36024 is a journey with both smooth stretches and challenging hills.
**The Upsides:**
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Lake Martin is the undisputed star. Boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking trails offer abundant opportunities for physical activity. Imagine a morning spent kayaking on the calm waters, the sun warming your face, the only sounds the gentle lapping of the water and the calls of birds. This connection with nature is inherently beneficial for both physical and mental health.
* **Community Gardens:** The growing interest in local food production is a positive sign. Community gardens, or even individual backyard plots, provide access to fresh, healthy produce. This not only improves dietary habits but also fosters a sense of community and connection to the land.
* **Strong Social Networks:** The close-knit nature of Eclectic fosters strong social connections. These networks can provide support, encouragement, and accountability for individuals striving to adopt healthier habits.
**The Downsides:**
* **Limited Access to Healthcare:** Rural areas often face challenges in accessing quality healthcare. Long travel times to specialists, limited availability of preventative care, and a shortage of healthcare professionals can all pose barriers to early detection and treatment of lung-related illnesses.
* **Tobacco Use:** While we don't have specific data, the prevalence of tobacco use in the community is a critical factor. Addressing this issue through education, cessation programs, and policy changes is crucial.
* **Environmental Concerns:** As mentioned earlier, potential air quality issues related to agricultural practices and seasonal burning need to be monitored and addressed.
**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**
The presence of local wellness programs is a crucial indicator of a community's commitment to health. Are there initiatives in place to promote healthy eating, encourage physical activity, and provide support for those seeking to quit smoking?
Imagine a local church hosting a weekly walking group, providing a safe and supportive environment for exercise. Or a community center offering cooking classes focused on healthy, affordable meals. These small acts of community engagement can have a profound impact.
We need to explore the availability of these programs in 36024. Are there partnerships between local healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations? Are there resources available for those struggling with tobacco addiction? The answers to these questions will help us understand the community's capacity to address the challenges to lung health.
**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Action: A Hypothetical Scenario**
Let's paint a vignette. Imagine a long-time resident, a retired teacher named Ms. Eleanor, who has lived in Eclectic her entire life. She’s a pillar of the community, a familiar face at the local library and a regular at the senior center.
Ms. Eleanor, like many in her generation, may have grown up in an era when smoking was more prevalent. She might also have faced challenges in accessing healthcare, potentially delaying preventative screenings.
Her "Lung Cancer Score" is influenced by these factors, as well as her current lifestyle. Does she have access to fresh produce? Does she have opportunities for regular physical activity? Is she connected to a supportive social network?
Understanding Ms. Eleanor's story, and the stories of countless others in 36024, is the key to understanding the community's overall lung health.
**Moving Forward: A Call to Action**
The "Lung Cancer Score" for 36024 is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's health, its challenges, and its potential.
To improve this "score," we need a multi-pronged approach:
* **Increased Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for expanded healthcare services, including preventative screenings, early detection programs, and access to specialists.
* **Tobacco Control:** Implement and enforce strong tobacco control policies, including smoke-free environments, youth prevention programs, and cessation support.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Support initiatives that encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and access to fresh produce.
* **Community Engagement:** Foster a sense of community and connection, creating a supportive environment for individuals seeking to improve their health.
* **Environmental Awareness:** Monitor and address potential environmental hazards, such as air quality concerns.
The breath of Eclectic is a precious resource. By understanding the factors that impact lung health, and by working together to address the challenges, we can ensure that the community continues to thrive for generations to come. This is not just about preventing lung cancer; it's about building a healthier, more vibrant, and more resilient Eclectic. It's about breathing easy.
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