There is an important new tool to help us understand health disparities in the District and to help target our health resources more effectively. The District just released an online resource to track community health indicators and outcomes, based on a collaboration of local hospitals and health clinics and the results of a Community Health Needs Assessment.
The online dashboard allows users to compare indicators over time and across race/ethnicity, gender, age, and ward. Some of the indicators also track how DC health indicators compare with the states. Here are a few big picture takeaways:
- Adult asthma is on the rise. About 16 percent of District adults report they have asthma, up slightly since 2009. The condition is particularly common in Wards 5 and 7, with almost one in four residents living with the illness. The prevalence of childhood asthma is highest among black children at 19 percent, twice as high as white children.
- Obesity is a problem, especially for black residents. About 66 percent of black adults are obese or overweight, compared with 40 percent of white residents. Black residents are also much less likely to engage in physical activity when compared to other races and ethnicities.
- Mental health services are difficult to obtain, especially among low-income residents. The needs assessment found that almost three-fourths of children enrolled in Medicaid have unmet needs for depression management and treatment.
- Teen sexual health challenges remain. Teens between ages 15 and 19 make up 42 percent of all chlamydia cases and 35 percent of all gonorrhea cases, up significantly since 2006.
- Access to affordable health care is still a major issue in the city. While 92 percent of residents have insurance, a significant number of residents cannot afford to see a doctor, particularly in Wards 7 and 8. Hispanic residents are at particular risk, with 18 percent reporting that they did not see a doctor in the last year because of costs. The report found a serious lack of specialists in Wards 7 and 8.
Knowing the major health challenges is the start. The next step is creating public policy to address these issues through strong public health programs and adequate funding. DCFPI looks forward to working with the District, health care providers, advocates and community leaders to do this.
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