15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score People Score

The People Score for the Overall Health Score in 15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.47 percent of the residents in 15324 has some form of health insurance. 46.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.89 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15324 would have to travel an average of 9.37 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Penn Highlands Mon Valley. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,402 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania.

## The Pulse of Cokeburg: Unveiling the Overall Health Score in 15324

The air in Cokeburg, Pennsylvania, hangs thick with the scent of history. It’s a fragrance of coal dust clinging to the brick facades, of generations raised under the watchful eye of the rolling hills, of a community forged in the fires of industry and resilience. But beyond the echoes of the past, a new story is being written, a story of health and well-being. This isn't just about the absence of disease; it's about the vibrant pulse of a community striving to thrive. And to understand that pulse, we delve into the Overall Health Score of ZIP Code 15324.

Let's be clear: there's no single, definitive number to encapsulate the health of a community. Instead, we'll paint a picture, a mosaic of data and observation, of the people and places that shape the health landscape of Cokeburg.

**Demographics: The Tapestry of Life**

Cokeburg, nestled in Washington County, is a community of approximately 700 residents. The demographic makeup is a critical thread in this tapestry. Predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of residents identifying as Black or African American, the population skews towards an older demographic. This aging population presents both challenges and opportunities. The prevalence of age-related health concerns, like cardiovascular disease and arthritis, is a reality. However, it also fosters a strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for one another, offering support and companionship.

The median household income in 15324 is a significant factor. While lower than the national average, it reflects the economic realities of a post-industrial town. This impacts access to healthcare, healthy food options, and opportunities for recreation. Understanding these economic pressures is crucial to interpreting the health score.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Connection**

Imagine a crisp autumn morning. The sun, a molten coin in the sky, casts long shadows across the quiet streets. You see Mrs. Petrocelli, her silver hair pulled back in a neat bun, tending her vibrant rose bushes, a splash of color against the weathered brick of her home. Across the street, Mr. Johnson, a retired coal miner, is already out, meticulously sweeping his porch, a familiar ritual. This is the heart of Cokeburg: a sense of familiarity, of knowing your neighbors, of a shared history.

The neighborhood vibe is a powerful force. It fosters social connections, which are vital for mental and emotional well-being. The local diner, "The Coal Bucket," isn't just a place to grab a coffee; it's a social hub, a place where conversations flow as freely as the coffee refills. These informal gatherings, the shared laughter and support, are the unsung heroes of community health.

**Places to Live: The Foundation of Well-being**

The housing stock in Cokeburg is a mix of charming older homes and a few newer developments. The availability of affordable housing is a positive factor, providing a stable foundation for families. However, the age of some homes can present challenges, such as potential lead paint hazards or inadequate insulation.

The physical environment also plays a role. The presence of green spaces, even small parks or well-maintained yards, encourages outdoor activity and provides a respite from the stresses of daily life. The proximity to essential services, like grocery stores and pharmacies, is also critical, particularly for the elderly population.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Cokeburg: A Portrait of Resilience**

Let's follow a day in the life of Maria, a young mother raising her two children in Cokeburg. Her day begins with a brisk walk with her children to the local park, the crisp air invigorating. The park, though modest, offers a playground and a grassy area where the children can run and play. Maria is conscious of the importance of healthy eating. She frequents the small local grocery store, carefully selecting fresh produce when available, supplementing with canned goods and frozen vegetables.

The challenges are real. Access to a wider variety of fresh produce can be limited, and the temptation of fast food, a common fixture in many small towns, is ever-present. But Maria is resourceful. She participates in the occasional community garden initiative, growing her own herbs and vegetables. She encourages her children to be active, walking to school whenever possible.

The community's resilience shines through. Despite economic constraints, a spirit of self-reliance and resourcefulness permeates the air.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty**

Cokeburg is surrounded by the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Mingo Creek County Park provides trails for hiking and biking, a welcome escape from the everyday.

Imagine a Saturday morning. Families are packing picnic baskets, preparing for a day of exploring the trails. The rustle of leaves, the chirping of birds, the feeling of the sun on your skin – these are the simple pleasures that contribute to overall well-being.

However, access to these recreational opportunities can be limited by transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles can pose a challenge, especially for those without reliable transportation.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The seeds of change are being sown in Cokeburg. Local wellness programs, though perhaps not as abundant as in larger urban centers, are beginning to take root.

Imagine a small community center offering a weekly yoga class, a space for seniors to socialize and exercise. Perhaps a local church hosts a monthly health fair, providing free health screenings and educational resources. These initiatives, often volunteer-driven, are vital. They offer access to information, support, and a sense of community that can be transformative.

The challenge lies in expanding these programs, securing funding, and ensuring accessibility for all residents.

**Healthcare Access: The Critical Link**

Access to healthcare is a cornerstone of community health. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health services is a crucial factor in the Overall Health Score.

Cokeburg benefits from its proximity to larger towns and cities, which offer a wider range of healthcare options. However, transportation and affordability can still be barriers. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, offers a promising solution, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

**Mental and Emotional Well-being: The Silent Strength**

Mental and emotional well-being is often overlooked but is a critical component of overall health. The stresses of life, the economic pressures, and the challenges of an aging population can take a toll.

The sense of community in Cokeburg is a significant asset. The informal support networks, the shared experiences, and the willingness of neighbors to help one another create a buffer against the challenges of life. The local church, the community center, and the informal gatherings at the diner all play a role in fostering mental and emotional well-being.

**The Overall Health Score: A Living Document**

So, what is the Overall Health Score for Cokeburg, Pennsylvania (15324)? It's not a simple number. It's a complex tapestry woven from demographics, neighborhood vibe, access to resources, and the resilience of the community.

The score is likely a mixed bag. The strong sense of community, the affordable housing, and the opportunities for outdoor recreation are positive factors. However, the aging population, the economic challenges, and the limited access to healthcare and healthy food options pose challenges.

The Overall Health Score is not static. It's a living document, a reflection of the community's ongoing efforts to improve its well-being. It's a call to action. It's an invitation to invest in the future of Cokeburg.

To improve the score, the community needs to:

* **Strengthen and expand local wellness programs:** Invest in community centers, offer more exercise classes, and increase access to mental health services.
* **Improve access to healthy food options:** Support community gardens, encourage local farmers markets, and advocate for grocery stores that offer fresh produce.
* **Enhance access to healthcare:** Promote telemedicine, provide transportation assistance to medical appointments, and advocate for affordable healthcare options.
* **Foster intergenerational connections:** Encourage interactions between the young and the old, creating opportunities for shared learning and support.
* **Advocate for economic development:** Support initiatives that create jobs and improve economic opportunities, reducing the financial pressures that impact health.

The story of Cokeburg is still being written. It’s a story of resilience, of community, and of the enduring human spirit. By understanding the factors that shape the Overall Health Score, the residents of 15324 can work together to build a healthier, more vibrant future. The pulse of Cokeburg is strong, and with continued effort, it will only grow stronger.