Improving the Health of Children and Adults MEANS Overcoming Barriers to Accessing Health and Wellness Services


From access to health care, nutrition and fitness, to preparing and responding to disasters and emergencies, United Way of Central Ohio and its partners are targeting health issues that not only affect individuals, but our entire community.

Unfortunately, too many of our neighbors lack access to basic health care - in particular preventive care which can reduce the incidence of chronic diseases like diabetes or diagnose problems early and intervene to prevent costly complications from conditions such as high blood pressure.

With health care costs outpacing inflation and growth in wages and with many central Ohioans living without health insurance, even a minor health crisis can lead families to financial ruin.

United Way of Central Ohio is tackling the important issue of health by focusing on three areas: making sure more central Ohioans have access to health and wellness services, encouraging better nutrition and physical fitness and ensuring Franklin County is prepared for disasters such as pandemic influenza outbreaks.

 

DID YOU KNOW?

  • In 2005, more than 11% of Franklin County adults were unable to receive the medical care they needed because of cost barriers.

  • More than 8 in 10 of the non-elderly uninsured live in families where the head of the family works.

  • In 2004, 59% of Franklin County adults were overweight, including 22% who were obese.

  • In 2004, nearly 25% of all children and 48% of African American children were overweight.

  • Less than 1 in 8 Franklin County residents participate in regular physical activity.