39051, Carthage, Mississippi Overall Health Score People Score

The People Score for the Overall Health Score in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.71 percent of the residents in 39051 has some form of health insurance. 45.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.92 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39051 would have to travel an average of 3.39 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Baptist Medical Center-Leake. In a 20-mile radius, there are 286 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi.

## The Pulse of Carthage: Unveiling the Overall Health Score in 39051

The sun, a molten coin in the Mississippi sky, casts long shadows across the courthouse square in Carthage, ZIP code 39051. You can almost taste the history in the air, a blend of magnolia blossoms, the faint tang of diesel from the pickup trucks parked around the square, and the quiet hum of a community that has seen generations come and go. But beyond the charm, beyond the familiar faces at the Piggly Wiggly and the comforting rhythm of Friday night football, lies a crucial question: How healthy is Carthage, really?

We're not just talking about individual doctor's visits and prescriptions. We're talking about the overall health score, a composite picture painted by the brushstrokes of demographics, access to resources, lifestyle choices, and the very fabric of the community itself. Let's peel back the layers and examine the pulse of Carthage, 39051.

**Demographics: The Foundation of Health**

The demographics of a community are the blueprints of its health landscape. In Carthage, a town cradled in the heart of Leake County, the numbers tell a story. The population is a mosaic, with a significant Black/African American population, reflecting the historical roots of the area. This demographic makeup inherently influences health considerations. We know that disparities in healthcare access and chronic disease prevalence often disproportionately affect minority communities.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, her hands weathered by years of tending her garden, sitting on her porch, the scent of honeysuckle heavy in the air. She might be concerned about the rising cost of her medications, the long wait times at the local clinic, or the lack of transportation to specialists in Jackson. These are real-life challenges that can impact the overall health score, creating barriers to preventative care and timely treatment.

Carthage, like many rural communities, grapples with an aging population. This means a higher prevalence of age-related health issues like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. The availability of geriatric care, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare services becomes paramount.

The economic landscape is another crucial factor. The median household income in 39051 is lower than the national average. This can translate to limited access to healthy food options, inadequate housing, and increased stress, all of which contribute to a less-than-optimal health profile.

**Places to Live: Where Health Begins at Home**

The physical environment plays a significant role in shaping health outcomes. Think about the homes in Carthage. Are they well-maintained, with access to clean water and sanitation? Do residents have safe, affordable housing options?

Picture a young family, the Millers, trying to find a suitable home. They might face challenges: limited housing stock, rising property taxes, and the need for repairs on older homes. The quality of their living environment directly impacts their health. Mold, lead paint, and poor ventilation can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues, especially for children.

The neighborhood vibe is also important. Do residents feel safe walking their children to school or taking an evening stroll? A sense of community, of belonging, can foster social support and reduce stress, which are vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

Consider the quiet streets lined with modest homes, the occasional porch swing creaking in the breeze, the friendly waves exchanged between neighbors. This sense of community is a strength in Carthage. However, the lack of sidewalks and bike paths in some areas can limit opportunities for physical activity, contributing to a less active lifestyle.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Carthage: The Daily Grind**

The choices we make every day – what we eat, how much we move, whether we smoke or drink excessively – significantly impact our health. In Carthage, the availability of healthy food options and opportunities for physical activity are key factors.

Imagine the aroma of fried catfish and hushpuppies wafting from a local diner. While delicious, these culinary traditions can contribute to a diet high in fat and calories. Access to fresh produce and healthy cooking classes can help residents make informed food choices.

The availability of grocery stores with a wide selection of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is crucial. The presence of farmers' markets, where residents can purchase locally grown produce, can also promote healthier eating habits.

Physical activity is another vital component of a healthy lifestyle. The lack of readily available recreational facilities can pose a challenge. The closest gym might be a drive away, and the lack of safe walking and biking paths can limit opportunities for exercise.

However, Carthage also has its strengths. The surrounding natural beauty of the area provides opportunities for outdoor recreation.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Mississippi Air**

The rolling hills and lush forests surrounding Carthage offer a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation. This is where the community's health score can shine.

Picture a group of friends hiking through the Bienville National Forest, the sunlight dappling through the trees. The fresh air, the physical exertion, the connection with nature – these are all powerful contributors to both physical and mental well-being.

The nearby Pearl River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. These activities provide not only exercise but also a chance to connect with the natural world and reduce stress.

The presence of parks and green spaces within the town itself is also important. These spaces provide opportunities for children to play, families to picnic, and individuals to relax and de-stress.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Community's Helping Hand**

Community health is not just the responsibility of individuals; it's a collective effort. The presence of local wellness programs and healthcare initiatives significantly impacts the overall health score.

Imagine the dedicated staff at the Leake County Medical Center, working tirelessly to provide quality healthcare to the community. Their efforts, coupled with the availability of preventative care services, such as screenings and vaccinations, are crucial.

The presence of community health centers, offering affordable healthcare services to low-income residents, is also vital. These centers can provide access to primary care, mental health services, and other essential resources.

The role of local churches and community organizations in promoting health and wellness cannot be overlooked. They can provide support groups, health education programs, and access to resources for those in need.

Consider the local YMCA, offering fitness classes, youth programs, and a sense of community. Or the food bank, providing nutritious meals to families struggling with food insecurity. These are the threads that weave together a stronger, healthier community.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Heart of Carthage**

The intangible elements of a community – its social fabric, its sense of belonging, its level of social cohesion – play a crucial role in its health.

Imagine the annual Carthage Watermelon Festival, the laughter, the music, the sense of shared identity. Events like this foster a sense of community and reduce social isolation, which are vital for mental and emotional well-being.

The level of social support within a community is also important. Do residents feel connected to their neighbors? Do they have access to a network of friends and family who can provide emotional support and practical assistance?

The presence of volunteer organizations, civic groups, and other community initiatives can contribute to a stronger social fabric. These groups provide opportunities for residents to connect with each other, build relationships, and work together to improve their community.

**Calculating the Overall Health Score: A Holistic View**

Calculating the overall health score for Carthage, 39051, requires a complex analysis of all these factors. It's not a simple number; it's a nuanced picture.

* **Demographics:** The age distribution, racial makeup, and socioeconomic status of the population.
* **Access to Healthcare:** The availability of medical providers, hospitals, clinics, and insurance coverage.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** The prevalence of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
* **Environmental Factors:** The quality of housing, access to clean water and sanitation, and the presence of green spaces.
* **Social Determinants of Health:** The level of social support, community engagement, and access to resources.

By analyzing these factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the health challenges and opportunities facing Carthage. The data can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed and to develop targeted interventions to promote health and well-being.

**The Path Forward: Building a Healthier Carthage**

The overall health score of Carthage, 39051, is not static. It's a living, breathing entity that can be improved.

The community can work together to:

* **Increase access to healthy food options:** Support local farmers' markets, promote healthy cooking classes, and encourage grocery stores to offer a wider selection of fresh produce.
* **Promote physical activity:** Develop walking and biking trails, create more recreational facilities, and encourage participation in outdoor activities.
* **Improve healthcare access:** Advocate for affordable healthcare, expand access to preventative care services, and support community health centers.
* **Strengthen the social fabric:** Foster a sense of community, support volunteer organizations, and encourage civic engagement.
* **Address social determinants of health:** Work to improve housing conditions, reduce poverty, and promote economic opportunity.

The future of Carthage's health rests in the hands of its residents. By working together, by embracing a holistic approach to health, and by celebrating the strengths of their community, the people of Carthage can build a healthier, more vibrant future for themselves and for generations to come. The sun will continue to rise over the courthouse square, but with a renewed commitment to well-being, the pulse of Carthage will beat stronger than ever.