The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40350, Moorefield, Kentucky is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 80.25 percent of the residents in 40350 has some form of health insurance. 80.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.15 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 40350 would have to travel an average of 17.14 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,468 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 40350, Moorefield, Kentucky.
Health Scores in 40350, Moorefield, Kentucky
Lung Cancer Score | 56 |
---|---|
People Score | 71 |
Provider Score | 38 |
Hospital Score | 70 |
Travel Score | 22 |
40350 | Moorefield | Kentucky | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 0.00 | 0.00 | 52.40 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 48.15 | 48.15 | 11.64 |
Medicare | 48.15 | 48.15 | 19.32 |
Medicaid | 32.10 | 32.10 | 26.17 |
TRICARE | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.79 |
VA | 100.00 | 100.00 | 52.26 |
Percent Insured in 40350, Moorefield, Kentucky
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
40350 | Moorefield | Kentucky | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 95.89 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 61.90 | 61.90 | 91.96 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.72 |
## The Breath of Moorefield: Unpacking Lung Cancer Score & Community Health in 40350
The air hangs thick and sweet over Moorefield, Kentucky. Not just with the scent of blooming honeysuckle, but also with the unspoken weight of community. Nestled in the heart of rural Nicholas County, this small town, defined by the ZIP code 40350, is a tapestry woven with threads of history, hard work, and the quiet resilience of its people. Understanding the community's health, particularly its vulnerability to lung cancer, is more than just numbers; it's about grasping the very breath of Moorefield.
**The Lung Cancer Score: A Window into Well-being**
A "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a single, definitive number. It's a composite picture, a mosaic pieced together from various factors that influence the risk of this devastating disease. It considers everything from smoking rates and environmental exposures to access to healthcare and socioeconomic realities. In Moorefield, this score would be a complex equation, reflecting the unique challenges and strengths of its community.
**Demographics: The Faces of Moorefield**
The first brushstrokes on the canvas of Moorefield's health are painted by its demographics. The population is predominantly white, with a significant older adult population. This aging demographic is a key consideration. Older individuals often have a longer history of potential exposure to risk factors like smoking and environmental hazards.
Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands gnarled with age, sitting on her porch swing, the rhythmic creak a familiar soundtrack to her life. She's seen generations come and go, witnessed the town evolve. She might recall a time when smoking was commonplace, a social ritual ingrained in daily life. This historical context, coupled with her age, places her in a higher-risk category, a stark reminder of the legacy of past habits.
Then there’s young David, eager to start his own business, perhaps a small farm-to-table venture. He represents the future of Moorefield, a generation with the potential to embrace healthier choices. But he faces challenges, too. Limited job opportunities might lead to stress, a known contributor to unhealthy behaviors. The availability of fresh, affordable food is another crucial factor in his well-being.
**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Connection**
The "neighborhood vibe" is a critical, often overlooked, component of community health. Moorefield, like many rural communities, thrives on close-knit relationships. Neighbors know each other, share stories, and offer support. This social fabric can be a powerful buffer against adversity.
Picture the annual town picnic, held on the grassy expanse of the county fairgrounds. The air buzzes with laughter, the aroma of barbecue fills the air. Families gather, children chase each other, and conversations flow easily. This sense of belonging, of shared identity, is a vital resource. It fosters a sense of responsibility for one another, a willingness to look out for each other's well-being.
However, the same close-knit nature can also present challenges. Gossip and misinformation can spread quickly. Stigma surrounding health issues, including lung cancer, can prevent people from seeking help. The pressure to conform to social norms, even unhealthy ones, can be strong.
**Places to Live: The Fabric of Daily Life**
The physical environment of Moorefield plays a significant role. The types of housing, the proximity to green spaces, and the presence of potential environmental hazards all contribute to the overall health landscape.
Consider the old houses lining Main Street. Some are well-maintained, reflecting pride of ownership. Others, however, show signs of neglect, potentially harboring mold or other environmental contaminants. The presence of older homes also hints at the possibility of lead-based paint, another potential health risk.
Contrast this with the newer developments on the outskirts of town. These might offer more modern amenities, but they also contribute to urban sprawl, potentially limiting access to green spaces and promoting car dependency.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room for the Soul**
Fortunately, Moorefield offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, a crucial element in promoting a healthy lifestyle. The rolling hills and verdant landscapes surrounding the town provide ample space for hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the fresh air.
Imagine a crisp autumn morning, the sun painting the trees in hues of gold and crimson. A group of friends, bundled in jackets, are hiking the trails at the nearby state park. The physical activity, the connection with nature, and the camaraderie are all powerful antidotes to stress and contribute to overall well-being.
However, access to these recreational opportunities is not always equitable. Transportation limitations, lack of awareness, and financial constraints can all prevent some residents from fully benefiting from the available resources.
**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**
Moorefield isn't without its efforts to promote community health. The local health department, community centers, and faith-based organizations likely offer a range of wellness programs. These initiatives are the seeds of change, the building blocks of a healthier future.
Perhaps there's a smoking cessation program offered at the local clinic. Maybe there are free exercise classes at the community center. These programs, while potentially limited in scope, represent a commitment to addressing the health needs of the community.
Imagine a support group meeting at the church basement. People share their struggles, offer encouragement, and learn coping mechanisms. This type of peer support can be invaluable in navigating the challenges of quitting smoking or dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis.
**Healthy Lifestyle in Moorefield: A Call to Action**
Promoting a healthy lifestyle in Moorefield requires a multi-pronged approach. It's about addressing the root causes of poor health, empowering individuals to make informed choices, and creating a supportive environment that fosters well-being.
**Here are some specific recommendations:**
* **Targeted Education:** Implement educational campaigns about the risks of smoking, the importance of early detection for lung cancer, and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Tailor the messaging to the specific needs of different demographic groups.
* **Smoking Cessation Support:** Expand access to smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups. Make these services readily available and affordable.
* **Environmental Awareness:** Conduct environmental assessments to identify potential hazards, such as radon, mold, and air pollution. Provide resources and support to address these issues.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Improve access to affordable healthcare, including primary care physicians, specialists, and diagnostic services. Promote regular screenings for lung cancer, particularly for high-risk individuals.
* **Healthy Food Initiatives:** Support local farmers markets, community gardens, and initiatives that promote access to fresh, affordable produce.
* **Community Engagement:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local leaders. Involve residents in the planning and implementation of health initiatives.
* **Promote Outdoor Recreation:** Enhance existing parks and trails, and explore opportunities to create new recreational spaces. Encourage walking and biking by improving infrastructure and promoting safe routes.
* **Address Social Determinants of Health:** Recognize and address the social and economic factors that influence health, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited job opportunities.
**The Future of Moorefield: Breathing Easier**
The "Lung Cancer Score" in Moorefield is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's health, its challenges, and its aspirations. By understanding the factors that contribute to this score, by addressing the root causes of poor health, and by fostering a culture of well-being, Moorefield can breathe easier.
The future of Moorefield is not predetermined. It's being written every day, in the choices we make, in the actions we take, and in the way we care for one another. It’s about creating a community where Mrs. Gable can enjoy her porch swing for many years to come, where David can thrive in a healthy and vibrant environment, and where the breath of Moorefield is filled with the promise of a long and healthy life for all. The key lies in recognizing the interconnectedness of the community, in celebrating its strengths, and in working together to build a healthier, more resilient future.
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