35452, Coker, Alabama Overall Health Score People Score

The People Score for the Overall Health Score in 35452, Coker, Alabama is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.24 percent of the residents in 35452 has some form of health insurance. 43.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.02 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 35452 would have to travel an average of 6.12 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Mary S Harper Geriatric Psychiatry Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,649 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 35452, Coker, Alabama.

## Coker, Alabama: Vital Signs and a Pulse on Community Health – Zip Code 35452

The sun, a molten orange, bleeds across the cotton fields as you drive into Coker, Alabama. The air, thick with the scent of damp earth and blossoming honeysuckle, whispers of a place rooted in the land. It's a place where front porches are still for sitting, where conversations linger, and where the rhythm of life seems to slow a beat, allowing for a deeper connection to the community. But beneath this idyllic surface, the health of a community, like the health of an individual, is a complex tapestry woven from threads of opportunity, access, and individual choices. This article dives deep into the vital signs of Coker, Alabama, ZIP code 35452, offering an 'Overall Health Score' assessment that considers its demographics, lifestyle, and the resources available to its residents.

**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Coker, nestled in Tuscaloosa County, is a tapestry woven with threads of history, agriculture, and a growing suburban influence. The population, hovering around 3,500 residents, is predominantly white, with a smaller but significant African American population. Families are the backbone of this community, with a higher-than-average percentage of children, suggesting a strong emphasis on family values and a future-oriented perspective.

The physical landscape plays a crucial role in shaping community health. The rolling hills, dotted with family farms and patches of dense woodland, offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Black Warrior River, a lifeblood for the region, provides a scenic backdrop and opportunities for fishing and boating, though access and water quality are key considerations.

The town itself isn't sprawling. It's a collection of homes, ranging from well-maintained older houses with sprawling yards to newer developments reflecting the area's growth. The presence of Tuscaloosa, a short drive away, provides access to a wider range of resources, including medical facilities, employment opportunities, and cultural events. This proximity is a double-edged sword: it offers access but can also contribute to a sense of dependence on the larger city, potentially impacting the development of local resources and initiatives.

**Vignette 1: The Heart of the Community – The Coker Community Center**

The Coker Community Center, a modest brick building, hums with activity. Inside, a group of seniors are engaged in a lively game of bingo, their laughter echoing through the room. A young mother, her face flushed with exertion, is teaching a toddlers' dance class. The center is more than just a building; it's the heart of the community, a place where connections are forged, friendships are nurtured, and information is shared. It's a hub for local events, a meeting place for civic groups, and a potential focal point for health and wellness initiatives. The center's vitality, or lack thereof, is a direct reflection of the community's engagement and its commitment to fostering a healthy environment.

**The Scorecard: Assessing the Key Indicators**

To arrive at an 'Overall Health Score' for Coker, we need to consider several key indicators, each contributing to a broader picture of community well-being:

* **Access to Healthcare:** This is a critical factor. While Tuscaloosa offers comprehensive medical facilities, the availability of primary care physicians, dentists, and specialists within Coker itself is a crucial consideration. The distance to these services, the availability of transportation, and the affordability of care all impact the health of residents. **(Score: Moderate)** The proximity to Tuscaloosa is a plus, but the lack of local primary care options poses a challenge, especially for those without reliable transportation.

* **Healthy Lifestyle:** This encompasses a range of factors, including diet, physical activity, and substance use. The availability of fresh, affordable food options, the opportunities for outdoor recreation, and the prevalence of healthy behaviors within the community are all important indicators. **(Score: Moderate)** The rural setting offers opportunities for outdoor activities, but the availability of healthy food options and the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles require further examination.

* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty, unemployment, and educational attainment are powerful determinants of health. These factors influence access to resources, healthcare, and opportunities for a healthy lifestyle. **(Score: Moderate)** The economic landscape of Coker is tied to the broader regional trends. The job market, educational opportunities, and income levels all play a role in the overall health of the community.

* **Environmental Factors:** The quality of the air and water, the presence of green spaces, and the safety of the neighborhood environment all contribute to community health. **(Score: Good)** The rural setting generally offers good air quality and opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, the impact of agricultural practices on water quality and the presence of environmental hazards need careful consideration.

* **Community Resources and Social Support:** The strength of community bonds, the availability of social services, and the presence of local organizations that promote health and well-being are crucial. **(Score: Moderate)** The Coker Community Center is a positive example, but the presence and effectiveness of other local resources and programs need to be assessed.

**Vignette 2: Trails and Whispers – Exploring the Outdoor Landscape**

The sun dips low, casting long shadows across the trails that wind through the nearby woods. A group of teenagers, their laughter echoing through the trees, are mountain biking. A couple, hand-in-hand, stroll along a path, enjoying the crisp autumn air. These trails, a testament to the community's appreciation for the outdoors, are a valuable asset. They offer opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and connection with nature. However, the accessibility of these trails, their maintenance, and the availability of safe and well-lit pathways are all critical factors in maximizing their positive impact on community health.

**Local Wellness Programs and Initiatives: The Seeds of Change**

The presence of local wellness programs and initiatives is a crucial indicator of a community's commitment to health. Are there programs promoting healthy eating, physical activity, and mental well-being? Are there partnerships between local organizations, schools, and healthcare providers? Are these programs accessible and affordable for all residents?

Coker's 'Overall Health Score' can be significantly improved by fostering and expanding these types of initiatives. This could include:

* **Partnering with local farmers:** Establishing a farmers market or supporting community gardens to increase access to fresh, affordable produce.
* **Promoting physical activity:** Organizing community walks, bike rides, or fitness classes.
* **Offering health education:** Providing workshops on nutrition, stress management, and chronic disease prevention.
* **Strengthening social support networks:** Facilitating support groups for seniors, parents, or individuals facing health challenges.
* **Advocating for policy changes:** Supporting policies that promote healthy food options, safe walking and biking routes, and access to healthcare.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of Connection**

The 'neighborhood vibe' is a subtle but powerful force in shaping community health. It's the feeling of safety, belonging, and social cohesion that permeates a community. It's the willingness of neighbors to look out for each other, to lend a helping hand, and to participate in community events.

In Coker, this sense of connection seems strong, but it's essential to actively cultivate and nurture it. This can be achieved through:

* **Organizing community events:** Hosting festivals, picnics, and other social gatherings to bring residents together.
* **Encouraging volunteerism:** Promoting opportunities for residents to give back to their community.
* **Creating safe and welcoming public spaces:** Ensuring that parks, playgrounds, and other public areas are well-maintained and accessible to all.
* **Fostering intergenerational connections:** Encouraging interaction between different age groups through mentorship programs, volunteer opportunities, and shared activities.

**Vignette 3: The Porch Light Glows – A Reflection of Community Spirit**

As twilight descends, the porch lights begin to flicker on, casting a warm glow on the quiet streets. A group of neighbors gathers on a porch, sharing stories and laughter. Children play tag in the fading light, their shouts echoing through the neighborhood. This scene, repeated countless times throughout Coker, is a testament to the community's strong social fabric. It's a reminder that community health is not just about physical well-being; it's also about social connection, belonging, and the shared experience of living in a place where people care about each other.

**Places to Live: Considerations for Health and Well-being**

When considering places to live within Coker, potential residents should factor in the following:

* **Proximity to essential services:** Access to healthcare, grocery stores, and other essential services.
* **Walkability and bikeability:** The availability of sidewalks, bike lanes, and safe walking routes.
* **Access to green spaces:** The presence of parks, trails, and other outdoor recreation areas.
* **Community resources:** The availability of community centers, libraries, and other resources that promote health and well-being.
* **Neighborhood safety:** The overall safety and security of the neighborhood.

**The Overall Health Score: A Snapshot in Time**

Based on the factors discussed, the 'Overall Health Score' for Coker, Alabama, ZIP code 35452, is **Moderate**. The community has a strong foundation in family values, a beautiful natural environment, and a sense of connection. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in access to healthcare, healthy food options, and the development of local wellness programs.

**The Path Forward: A Call to Action**

The health of Coker is not static. It is a dynamic process that requires ongoing effort and commitment from residents, community leaders, and local organizations. By focusing on the key indicators discussed in this article, by fostering a strong sense of community, and by actively promoting health and well-being, Coker can strive to improve its 'Overall Health Score' and create a healthier, more vibrant community for all its residents. The future of Coker, like the setting sun over the cotton fields, is full of potential, waiting to be nurtured and brought to its fullest brilliance.