The People Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.93 percent of the residents in 18603 has some form of health insurance. 41.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.26 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 18603 would have to travel an average of 0.67 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Berwick Hospital Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 702 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score | 25 |
---|---|
People Score | 13 |
Provider Score | 38 |
Hospital Score | 35 |
Travel Score | 69 |
18603 | Berwick | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 58.93 | 58.93 | 58.71 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 13.19 | 13.19 | 14.80 |
Medicare | 23.72 | 23.72 | 19.53 |
Medicaid | 21.59 | 21.59 | 19.77 |
TRICARE | 1.33 | 1.33 | 1.43 |
VA | 51.22 | 51.22 | 51.92 |
Percent Insured in 18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
18603 | Berwick | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 95.41 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 94.60 | 94.60 | 92.43 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.56 |
## The Breath of Berwick: Unveiling the Lung Cancer Score in 18603
The Susquehanna River, a ribbon of silver, snakes its way through the heart of Berwick, Pennsylvania, a town etched with the echoes of industry and the quiet resilience of its people. The air, a mix of the crisp mountain breeze and the lingering scent of coal, carries the whispers of history and the promise of a future. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic community, a shadow looms: the threat of lung cancer. This isn't just a statistic; it's a story woven into the fabric of 18603, a story we’re here to unpack, to understand, and to ultimately, empower.
We're not just talking about numbers here. We're talking about lives lived, breaths taken, and the quality of life that defines a community. We're talking about a "Lung Cancer Score," not a formal, scientific metric, but a composite understanding of the factors that contribute to lung health within this specific ZIP code. This score is built on the foundation of community health, encompassing everything from access to healthcare to the availability of green spaces, from the prevalence of smoking to the vibrancy of local wellness programs.
**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Berwick Vibe**
Berwick, nestled in Columbia County, is a town of roughly 10,000 souls. The demographic tapestry is woven with threads of hard work, loyalty, and a deep connection to the land. Generations have built their lives here, working in the railroad yards, the textile mills, and the local factories. The town’s median age leans towards the older side, reflecting a population that has weathered the storms of economic shifts and societal changes.
Imagine a Tuesday afternoon on Market Street. The sun casts long shadows as you walk past the brick facades of the old storefronts. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee spills out from the local diner, "The Lunch Box," where regulars swap stories and catch up on the day's news. A group of teenagers, their laughter echoing off the buildings, hustle past, heading towards the park. This is Berwick. It's a place where neighbors know each other, where a helping hand is readily offered, and where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the flow of the river.
But this sense of community also carries its own set of challenges. The legacy of industry has left its mark, not just on the landscape, but on the health of its residents. The economic realities of the past have shaped lifestyle choices, including higher rates of smoking, a significant risk factor for lung cancer.
**The Breathing Room: Places to Live and Their Impact**
Where you live has a profound impact on your health. In Berwick, the housing landscape is diverse, ranging from historic Victorian homes with their intricate details to more modest, single-family dwellings. The availability of affordable housing is a key factor, but the quality of that housing, the presence of environmental hazards, and the proximity to essential services all contribute to the overall health picture.
Think of the quiet streets lined with mature trees, the kind of streets where kids can safely ride their bikes and neighbors gather on porches to chat. These pockets of tranquility offer a different experience than the areas closer to the industrial zones, where the air might carry a heavier load of pollutants.
Consider the homes near the river, with their stunning views and access to the water. While these locations offer undeniable beauty, they also come with the potential for flooding and other environmental concerns.
The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors. It acknowledges the importance of safe, healthy housing, the presence of lead paint, asbestos, and other hazards that can impact respiratory health. It also recognizes the need for access to clean air and water, essential for maintaining healthy lungs.
**The Smoke Screen: Understanding the Risk Factors**
Smoking remains the single biggest risk factor for lung cancer, and its prevalence in 18603 is a critical component of our "Lung Cancer Score." While smoking rates have declined nationally, the challenge persists in many communities, and Berwick is no exception.
Imagine a group of friends gathered outside a local bar, sharing cigarettes and laughter. This scene, while common, represents a significant risk. The addictive nature of nicotine, the exposure to harmful chemicals, and the long-term damage to the lungs are all factors that contribute to the increased risk of lung cancer.
Beyond smoking, other factors play a role. Exposure to radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is a significant concern in Pennsylvania. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the prevalence of radon testing and mitigation efforts within the community. Exposure to asbestos, a known carcinogen, is another factor, particularly given the history of industry in the area.
**The Healing Hands: Access to Healthcare and Early Detection**
Access to quality healthcare is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and diagnostic services within 18603 and the surrounding areas.
Picture a visit to the local Geisinger hospital. The waiting room, filled with a mix of ages and backgrounds, reflects the community's need for accessible healthcare. The availability of early detection programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, is crucial. These scans can detect lung cancer at an earlier stage, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment.
The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services for those diagnosed with lung cancer, including support groups, counseling, and financial assistance. The journey through diagnosis and treatment can be overwhelming, and the support of a strong community is essential.
**The Breath of Fresh Air: Outdoor Recreation and Healthy Lifestyle in Berwick**
Berwick isn't just about the past; it's also about the future. The community is actively embracing a healthier lifestyle, with a growing emphasis on outdoor recreation and wellness programs.
Think of a Saturday morning at the Berwick Riverfront Park. Families are picnicking, children are playing on the swings, and people are walking or biking along the scenic trails. The river, a constant presence, provides a sense of peace and tranquility.
The "Lung Cancer Score" recognizes the importance of these green spaces. Parks, trails, and other outdoor recreation areas provide opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and connection with nature, all of which contribute to overall health and well-being.
The local YMCA offers a variety of fitness classes, from yoga to Zumba, providing opportunities for residents to engage in regular exercise. Farmers markets provide access to fresh, locally grown produce, promoting healthy eating habits.
**The Community's Compass: Local Wellness Programs and Initiatives**
The spirit of Berwick is one of resilience and community. Several local wellness programs and initiatives are actively working to improve the health of the residents.
Imagine a community health fair held in the town square. Local healthcare providers offer free screenings, educational materials, and resources. Volunteers share information about smoking cessation programs, healthy eating habits, and the importance of early detection.
The "Lung Cancer Score" takes into account the presence and effectiveness of these programs. Smoking cessation programs, in particular, are crucial in reducing the risk of lung cancer. Educational campaigns that raise awareness about the risks of smoking and the importance of early detection are also vital.
The local schools play a crucial role in educating young people about the dangers of smoking and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. The community's commitment to supporting these initiatives is a testament to its dedication to the health of its residents.
**The Score and the Future: A Call to Action**
The "Lung Cancer Score" for 18603, while not a single, definitive number, is a complex tapestry woven from the threads of demographics, lifestyle, access to healthcare, and community initiatives. It's a call to action.
It highlights the challenges, the risks, and the opportunities for improvement. It underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of lung cancer, including smoking, environmental hazards, and lack of access to healthcare.
It also celebrates the strengths of the community: the resilience of its people, the beauty of its natural surroundings, and the growing commitment to a healthier future.
The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't just about numbers; it's about people. It's about the families who have lost loved ones to lung cancer, the individuals who are battling the disease, and the community that stands by them.
It's a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a healthier Berwick. By supporting local wellness programs, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and advocating for access to quality healthcare, we can all contribute to improving the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensuring that the breath of Berwick continues to be filled with life, vitality, and the promise of a brighter future. The work continues, and the community, with its heart of gold and its spirit of grit, is ready to meet the challenge.
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