Health District survey looks at access to care issues

The Lake County General Health District is conducting a community survey seeking information of access to care issues in the county.

The survey is open to Lake County residents 18 years of age and older. The survey can be accessed at https://www. surveymonkey.com/ r/2017AccesstoCare.

The survey consists of 54 multiple choice questions and can be completed anonymously. The health district said it takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.

Question topics include health and dental insurance coverage as well as possible barriers to receiving care including cost, travel and lack of a personal physician or primary medical home.

The health district said the survey is the first step in looking at strategies to improve access to care for Lake County residents.

Focus groups will also be conducted with specific groups including senior citizens, individuals using behavioral health services and limited-English speaking populations.

Information gathered will be used by healthcare stakeholders to identify underserved populations, close gaps in service and develop long-term solution so that “all Lake County residents can reach their full potential,” the health district stated.

“With continued discussions around amending the Affordable Care Act, now is an appropriate time to review how Lake County residents access healthcare in our community,” Health Commissioner Ron H. Graham said in a statement. “Lake County is very fortunate to have several large hospital systems, as well as publicly funded providers working in our area. Yet there is still a significant population of our residents who are unable to access the timely services they need to maintain health.”

The online survey is open until July 15. The winner of a $50 Giant Eagle gift care will be selected amongst those who submit their name and contact information at the above survey link. Completion of the survey is not a requirement of entry into the drawing.

Anyone seeking additional information is asked to contact Christine Margalis at 440-350-2879.