Community assessment spotlights problems, possible solutions

The 2016 Community Assessment report for Mineral County is now available for public viewing to be used by residents and officials alike. The information will be used for Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER). It will provide household-level information and helps to assess the effect if a disaster were to hit the area. The information is also used to assess the health and basic needs of Mineral County.

The study is a collaborative effort between the Mineral County Health Department, the Mineral Community Hospital, and the Public Health and Safety Division. Door-to-door surveys were conducted on April 25, and 27. It included 140 interviews covering samples from all of the county.

Seventy percent of the respondents were female and thirty-six percent were age 65 or older. Fifty-two percent have lived in Mineral County for 15 years or more. Of the responses, over ninety-seven percent said they felt safe in their homes, and in their community. Almost ninety percent agreed that their community is a good place to raise children and that they have enough financial resources to meet their basic needs. They also said their community is a good place to grow old.

The three most important health concerns included alcohol and substance abuse, unemployment, and child abuse and neglect. Areas of improvement for the area include more social options, expanded medical services and transportation assistance.

Respondents also said that summer activities, more activities for teens, and more things for children to do with their free time, would make Mineral County a better place to raise children.

Some other questions asked where respondents get their health care. A little over half receive their care in Mineral County. Other questions asked about exercise and fitness. Almost sixty percent of respondents said there are places to be physically active near their home. With over eighty-five percent saying they are physically active individuals. The survey results indicated that more parks, and trails would help residents be more active. Followed by walking or exercise groups, access to a gym, and more programs or sports.

As far as eating healthy, the biggest barrier reported is the lack of community places to buy healthy food, followed by the high cost of healthy foods. As a result of the survey, areas of potential health interventions include continued efforts to decrease smoking, increase influenza vaccine coverage, and increase routine dental care.