99791, Atqasuk, Alaska Overall Health Score

The Overall Health Score in 99791, Atqasuk, Alaska is 6 out of 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

6.12 percent of the population in 99791 drive to work alone. 0.00 percent of the people take some form of public transportation like the bus or the train to work. Approximately 93.88 percent of the residents get to work in less than 30 minutes. 0.00 percent of the residents in 99791 get to work in more than 60 minutes. The average household size is approximately 4.02 members with about 0.59 cars available per household.

An estimate of 75.69 percent of the residents in 99791 has some form of health insurance. 44.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.88 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 99791 would have to travel an average of miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, No nearby hospital found . In a 20-mile radius, there are 0 healthcare providers accessible to residents in 99791, Atqasuk, Alaska.

As of , an estimate of 181 residents live in 99791 with a median age of 21.5 years. 41.99 percent of the population is under the age of 18, and 7.18 percent of the population is at least 65 years of age. 41.67 percent of the residents in 99791 is currently married, and 38.89 percent of the population has never been married.

The monthly median household income in 99791 is $4,947.92. The monthly median housing costs for residents in 99791 is approximately $750. The median household spends about 15.16 percent of their income on housing.

Atqasuk, Alaska, is a small rural village located in the North Slope Borough. With a population of around 250 people, Atqasuk offers a unique blend of traditional Inupiat culture and stunning natural landscapes. For those considering a move to this remote community, access to healthcare amenities is an essential factor to consider.

Healthcare Access

In Atqasuk, healthcare accessibility is primarily facilitated through the Atqasuk Health Clinic, which is operated by the Arctic Slope Native Association (ASNA). The clinic provides essential medical services to residents, including primary care, dental care, behavioral health services, and telemedicine consultations with specialists located outside the village.

The Atqasuk Health Clinic plays a crucial role in ensuring that residents have access to basic healthcare services without needing to travel long distances. However, for more specialized care or emergencies requiring hospitalization, residents will need to be transported to larger medical facilities in nearby towns or cities.

Transportation Options

Given its remote location and the absence of road access connecting Atqasuk to other parts of Alaska, transportation options for accessing healthcare beyond the village are limited. Residents often rely on small aircraft for medical evacuations in emergency situations. Additionally, ASNA operates a medical transport service that provides scheduled flights for patients requiring non-emergent care in larger medical facilities outside of Atqasuk.

For routine healthcare visits and non-emergency situations, residents may need to rely on weather-permitting flights or wait for periodic visits from mobile health clinics that serve rural communities in the North Slope Borough. While these transportation challenges can pose significant barriers to accessing specialized care, they are not uncommon in remote Alaskan communities like Atqasuk.

Local Health Initiatives

In recent years, there have been efforts to improve healthcare access and promote wellness within the community of Atqasuk. These initiatives often involve partnerships between local organizations and government agencies aimed at addressing specific health concerns and promoting preventive care among residents.

One notable initiative is the focus on traditional Native healing practices within the framework of modern healthcare delivery. This approach recognizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding traditional healing methods as complementary to Western medicine. By incorporating traditional healing practices into the broader healthcare system, residents have access to a more holistic approach to wellness that aligns with their cultural heritage.

Furthermore, community wellness programs organized by ASNA and other local entities provide education on nutrition, exercise, and chronic disease management. These programs aim to empower residents with knowledge and resources to take control of their health and well-being. By fostering a sense of community engagement and self-care, these initiatives contribute to improving overall health outcomes in Atqasuk.

Local History

Atqasuk has a rich history rooted in Inupiat traditions and subsistence living. The village was established in 1977 as part of the Native land claims settlement under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA). Since then, Atqasuk has remained a close-knit community where traditional practices such as hunting, fishing, and whaling continue to play an integral role in daily life.

The village's historical ties to its cultural heritage are evident in various aspects of community life, including healthcare practices that incorporate traditional Native healing methods alongside modern medical interventions. This unique blend reflects the resilience and adaptability of Atqasuk's residents as they navigate challenges related to healthcare access in a remote Arctic setting.

Local Healthcare Navigation

In navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access in Atqasuk, residents often rely on close-knit social networks and community support systems. When facing health-related challenges or seeking assistance with transportation for medical needs, individuals turn to family members, friends, or local leaders for guidance and help.

Additionally, ASNA plays a central role in coordinating healthcare services for residents by providing assistance with scheduling appointments at external facilities and arranging necessary transportation when needed. The collaborative efforts between ASNA staff and community members ensure that individuals can overcome logistical barriers when seeking essential healthcare services outside of Atqasuk.

Moving Considerations

For individuals considering a move to Atqasuk or other remote Alaskan communities like it, understanding the nuances of healthcare accessibility is paramount. Those with long-term illnesses or disabilities may face additional considerations related to accessing specialized care while living in a remote setting such as Atqasuk.

Prior research into available healthcare amenities within the village and nearby areas is crucial for making informed decisions about relocation. Prospective movers should also consider their individual healthcare needs and assess how they align with the available resources within the community.

Ultimately, while living in a remote Alaskan village like Atqasuk offers unique cultural experiences and unparalleled natural beauty, it is essential for potential residents to weigh the practicalities of accessing healthcare against these benefits. By understanding local health initiatives, transportation options, historical context,
and navigating available resources effectively,
individuals can make informed decisions about relocating
to this one-of-a-kind community nestled
in Alaska's vast wilderness.