BHA-FPX4108 Assessment 1: Managing Population Health Analyze Community Health Needs

Analyze Community Health Needs

Communities play key roles at the local, state, and national levels. The presence of community health centers, healthcare organizations, and other stakeholders reinforces the collective commitment to improving the overall health of residents. Owensboro is among the communities that create opportunities to thrive socially and economically. This paper describes the health improvement needs of the community based on epidemiological information.

Salient Characteristics That Define a Community

Owensboro is in western Kentucky. The region has a population of 59,796 people and a median age of 38.4. Young adults and residents between 60-69 years form the majority of the population (Census Bureau, 2020). For instance, 14% are between 20-29 years. Similarly, 13% of the population represent older adults between 60-69 years. Whites dominate the population with 83% followed by African Americans at 6% and Asian Americans at 2%. Owensboro has a per capita income of $27,780 and a median household income of $46,193. A larger population (54%) has a household income below $50,000 (Census Bureau, 2020). Further, 20.5% of residents live below the poverty line with an income of about $11,844. Children and seniors are the most affected by the worrying poverty rates. Further, personal cars and carpooling dominate the mode of transportation at 84% and 9% respectively (Census Bureau, 2020). Geographically, Owensboro has a scenic environment makes the community a major attraction point for those planning a visit to an art museum or a distillery tour. Residents and visitors can enjoy waterfront strolls and picturesque views. The community is also appropriate for individuals looking to invest in a fun urban setting due to several local parks and opportunities to stay healthy and enjoy nature.

Health Improvement Needs Of a Community

The health improvement needs of the Owensboro community include mental health, diabetes, and adult obesity. Mental health is a serious concern due to stigma that undermines access to behavioral and mental health services. Overweight/obesity is the second health challenge with 18% of households affected by the condition. Diabetes follows with 14% while 12% of the households face mental health issues (Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital, 2021). Poor eating habits, inadequate physical exercise, and alcohol abuse are some of the risky behaviors that increase the prevalence of mental illnesses, diabetes, and adult obesity (Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital, 2021). Thus, health improvement needs portray the need for the community to focus more on adopting comprehensive care plans including mental health options, access to specialists, and counseling services accessible by households. More support groups for diabetes and mental health issues are necessary to ensure that more people get help within the appropriate time.

Engagement of Community Stakeholders

Community stakeholders include the local government, community agencies, healthcare organizations such as Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital, and wellness centers. The identified stakeholders help the community address the three health needs identified. For instance, Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital collaborates with citizens to initiate community walks and runs to address adult obesity (Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital, 2021). Similarly, Owensboro Health Healthpark collaborates with schools, families, and employers to provide free health assessment and educate on healthy food, beverage choices, and physical activities for preventing obesity. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital is among the stakeholders playing crucial roles in increasing depression screenings and access to inpatient services for residents battling mental health issues (Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital, 2021). The facility coordinates with Pennyroyal Mental Health Center to enhance access to behavioral health services and educational sessions for preventing self-harm such as suicide.