Project Summary
Project Summary In September 2011, Carilion Clinic received a grant from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHA), to conduct a year-long planning initiative to study the health of those who live, work and play in the Roanoke Valley and to determine how to strengthen the current system of care for these individuals. As a primary component of this planning process, the Roanoke Valley Community Health Needs Assessment was conducted. This report contains the findings of that needs assessment, including data on the target population and service area, primary and secondary data, a health and human services inventory of existing safety net providers, an analysis of the environment of care, and a strategic plan addressing the needs of the community. Method A 35-member Community Health Assessment Team (CHAT) oversaw the planning activities. The service area included those living in the Roanoke Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) which includes the counties of Botetourt, Craig, Franklin and Roanoke and the cities of Roanoke and Salem. An emphasis was placed on those living in the city of Roanoke, especially those living in the two Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs) of the city. The target population included the low-income, uninsured and/or underinsured, and those living with chronic illness. Beginning in January 2012, primary data collection included a Community Health Survey, ten focus groups with key stakeholders and providers, and six focus groups with target populations. Secondary data was collected including demographic and socioeconomic indicators as well as health indicators addressing access to care, health status, prevention, wellness, risky behaviors and the social environment. Findings The findings of the Community Health Needs Assessment revealed distinct disparities, especially for those living in the city of Roanoke. Poverty rates were higher, academic attainment rates were lower, and unemployment rates continue to be greater than statewide averages. The city of Roanoke is ethnically diverse compared to other localities in the MSA, with language and cultural barriers impacting care. Health statistics revealed higher death rates and prevention quality indicators for preventable, chronic diseases. Teen pregnancy rates in the city of Roanoke have improved but continue to be two times higher than rates in Virginia. More adults have high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol levels, are smokers, and are obese with limited physical activity in the city of Roanoke. Fewer adults have visited a dentist in the past two years and there are higher suicide and prescription drug deaths. Utilization of the Emergency Department for non-acute, primary care services for the low-income and uninsured has resulted in an over-burdened system of care. Page | 7