37313, Coalmont, Tennessee Overall Health Score People Score

The People Score for the Overall Health Score in 37313, Coalmont, Tennessee is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.13 percent of the residents in 37313 has some form of health insurance. 50.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.11 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 37313 would have to travel an average of 22.51 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Unity Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 122 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 37313, Coalmont, Tennessee.

## Coalmont's Vitality: Unpacking the Overall Health Score in 37313

The air in Coalmont, Tennessee, hangs thick with the scent of pine and the promise of a life lived close to the land. Nestled in the heart of the Cumberland Plateau, this tight-knit community, defined by the 37313 ZIP code, offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and down-to-earth living. But beyond the postcard-perfect scenery, what's the overall health score of Coalmont? How does this community fare in the crucial areas of well-being, and what opportunities exist to cultivate an even healthier future? Let's delve into the specifics.

**A Snapshot of the Landscape: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Before we can assess health, we need to understand the people and the place. Coalmont is a small town, its population a tapestry woven with generations of families who have called this land home. The demographic profile is largely homogenous, with a significant percentage of residents identifying as white. Median household income tends to be lower than both the state and national averages, reflecting the economic realities of a rural community. The workforce is primarily engaged in industries like manufacturing, forestry, and agriculture, reflecting the area’s reliance on natural resources.

The landscape itself plays a crucial role in shaping community health. The rugged terrain, punctuated by the towering peaks of the Plateau, offers both challenges and opportunities. The remoteness can limit access to certain healthcare services, but it also fosters a deep connection to nature, a cornerstone of physical and mental well-being.

**The Heart of the Matter: Assessing the Pillars of Community Health**

An "Overall Health Score" is a complex metric, encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being. It considers factors like access to healthcare, rates of chronic diseases, mental health prevalence, social support networks, and lifestyle choices. While a precise, numerical score for Coalmont isn't readily available, we can paint a vivid picture by examining these key areas.

**Healthcare Access: A Balancing Act**

One of the most significant challenges for Coalmont is healthcare access. The nearest hospitals are located a significant drive away, and the community relies heavily on a local clinic and occasional mobile health units. This distance can be a barrier to timely care, especially for emergencies. The availability of specialists, from cardiologists to mental health professionals, is also limited, forcing residents to travel for specialized treatment.

However, the community has shown resilience. Efforts are underway to improve healthcare access, including exploring telehealth options and advocating for increased funding for local clinics. The tight-knit nature of the community often means neighbors look out for each other, assisting with transportation to appointments and providing support to those navigating the healthcare system.

**Chronic Disease: Navigating the Challenges**

Like many rural communities, Coalmont faces challenges related to chronic diseases. Rates of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity can be higher than national averages, often linked to factors like limited access to healthy food options, sedentary lifestyles, and the prevalence of unhealthy habits.

Imagine a typical Saturday morning. Instead of a bustling farmers market, the closest grocery store might be a drive away, and the shelves might be stocked with more processed foods than fresh produce. The lack of readily available, affordable healthy options can contribute to poor dietary choices.

However, there's a growing awareness of these challenges. Local initiatives are beginning to address these issues, promoting healthier eating habits and encouraging physical activity.

**Mental Wellness: A Quiet Struggle, a Growing Awareness**

Mental health is often a hidden struggle in rural communities. The stigma surrounding mental illness can be particularly strong, and access to mental health services can be limited. Isolation, economic hardship, and the pressures of rural life can contribute to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

Picture a young person struggling with anxiety, feeling isolated in their community. The nearest mental health professional might be hours away, making it difficult to seek help.

Fortunately, there's a growing recognition of the importance of mental wellness in Coalmont. Local organizations are working to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and connect residents with available resources. Support groups, community events, and outreach programs are slowly chipping away at the barriers to seeking help.

**Social Fabric: The Strength of Connection**

One of Coalmont's greatest strengths lies in its strong social fabric. The community is known for its close-knit relationships, its sense of belonging, and its willingness to support one another. This social connectedness is a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, contributing significantly to overall well-being.

Imagine a community potluck, where neighbors gather to share food, laughter, and stories. These gatherings are more than just social events; they're opportunities to build connections, strengthen bonds, and provide mutual support.

This social connectedness is a vital component of Coalmont's health score. The sense of belonging, the shared experiences, and the mutual support create a resilient community that can weather challenges and celebrate successes together.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Coalmont: Finding the Balance**

Coalmont offers a unique environment for cultivating a healthy lifestyle. The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities is a major draw. Hiking trails, fishing spots, and vast stretches of forest provide ample opportunities for physical activity and a deep connection to nature.

Picture a family spending a Saturday afternoon hiking through the Grundy Forest State Natural Area, the crisp mountain air filling their lungs. The physical exertion, the stunning scenery, and the shared experience contribute to both physical and mental well-being.

However, the availability of these outdoor opportunities doesn't automatically translate into a healthy lifestyle for everyone. The lack of readily accessible recreational facilities, the demands of work, and the influence of unhealthy habits can create barriers.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Despite the challenges, Coalmont is not standing still. Local organizations and individuals are working to create a healthier community.

* **Community Gardens:** Initiatives to establish community gardens are gaining momentum, providing residents with access to fresh, healthy produce and fostering a sense of community.
* **Walking Clubs:** Walking clubs and other group fitness activities are springing up, encouraging physical activity and social interaction.
* **Health Education:** Local clinics and organizations are offering health education programs, providing residents with information and resources to make informed choices about their health.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups for various health conditions are being established, providing a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and receive support.

These initiatives, though still in their early stages, are sowing the seeds of change. They are creating opportunities for residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, build stronger social connections, and improve their overall well-being.

**Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Resilience**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Coalmont is one of resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep connection to the land. It's a place where people know their neighbors, where they lend a hand when needed, and where they take pride in their community.

Picture a group of volunteers working together to clean up a local park, their laughter echoing through the trees. This is the essence of Coalmont's neighborhood vibe: a sense of shared responsibility, a willingness to work together, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and the spirit of the community.

**Outdoor Recreation: Nature's Prescription**

The surrounding natural beauty of Coalmont is a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. The opportunities for outdoor recreation are abundant, offering residents a chance to connect with nature, engage in physical activity, and improve their mental well-being.

Imagine a kayaker gliding across the glassy surface of a local lake, the only sounds the gentle lapping of water against the hull and the calls of birds overhead. This is the essence of outdoor recreation in Coalmont: a chance to escape the hustle and bustle, to find peace and tranquility, and to reconnect with the natural world.

**Looking Ahead: Cultivating a Healthier Future**

Coalmont's overall health score is a complex equation, influenced by a multitude of factors. While challenges exist, the community possesses remarkable strengths: a strong social fabric, a deep connection to nature, and a growing awareness of the importance of health and well-being.

To cultivate an even healthier future, Coalmont needs to continue to:

* **Improve Healthcare Access:** Advocate for increased funding for local clinics, explore telehealth options, and recruit more healthcare professionals.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Expand access to healthy food options, encourage physical activity, and provide health education programs.
* **Address Mental Health Needs:** Reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, increase access to mental health services, and support community-based mental health initiatives.
* **Strengthen Community Connections:** Foster social interaction, support community events, and promote a sense of belonging.
* **Embrace the Outdoors:** Encourage outdoor recreation, protect natural resources, and promote the benefits of connecting with nature.

Coalmont, Tennessee, is a community with a heart. By addressing the challenges, building on its strengths, and embracing a vision for a healthier future, Coalmont can continue to thrive, offering its residents a life filled with vitality, connection, and the enduring beauty of the Cumberland Plateau. The journey to a higher overall health score is ongoing, but the spirit of Coalmont, its resilience, and its unwavering commitment to its people, will undoubtedly pave the way.