Macon County, Georgia, is a community with a population of 12,082 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). It grapples with various socioeconomic challenges, impacting the health and well-being of its residents. This essay delves into the demographics of Macon County, particularly a subpopulation at risk. It analyzes environmental concerns and identifies a social determinant of health (SDOH). It finally discusses available resources, identifies gaps, and proposes an evidence-based intervention to address health disparities.
A Demographics of Macon County
Macon County, Georgia, is a community with a population of 12,082 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). The specific subpopulation at risk within this community is African American, making up 59.3% of the population. The gender distribution is relatively balanced, with 44.2% female and 55.8% male. In terms of age, 5.0% are under five years old, 18.4% are under 18 years old, and 19.2% are 65 years and over. The racial composition includes 37.0% White, 59.3% Black or African American, and 5.1% Hispanic or Latino (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). The median household income is $33,960, reflecting economic challenges, and only 10.1% of the population has a Bachelor’s degree or higher. A significant 23.8% of residents live in poverty. The economic challenges may contribute to specific criminal activities (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). The occupational landscape and access to healthcare, transportation, and food sources are impacted by economic constraints. Meanwhile, health and nutrition rates are likely influenced by the high poverty rate and limited access to resources.
Environmental Challenges: Macon County, Georgia, is dealing with problems in the environment that significantly impact African Americans who live there
(U.S. News & World Report, 2024). Economic hardships make it hard for people in Macon County, Georgia, to get clean water, and this is a worry because the water might not be safe, which could lead to diseases. Problems with sanitation facilities also make it riskier for people’s health. The air might not be clean because of factories or not enough rules to keep it clean. The socioeconomic status of the African-Americans heightens the threat of hazardous waste and environmental toxins (U.S. News & World Report, 2024)
Demographic Disparities: Differences in the types of people living in Macon County show that some groups have more health problems than others, especially the at-risk. Primarily the African American (59.3% of the population). The county experiences elevated poverty rates (23.8%) and lower educational attainment (10.1% with a Bachelor’s degree or higher) (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). These socioeconomic factors contribute to limited access to healthcare services. The differences in race and money also make the at-risk group more in danger when it comes to environmental problems like bad water and issues with sanitation (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). This aspect makes the problems with water and sanitation even more severe for them. The intersectionality of race, income, and education emphasizes the urgency for targeted interventions to address the distinct health concerns of this subpopulation.
B Determinant of Health (SDOH) – Economic Factors
Economic factors are significant determinants of health in Macon County. Economic instability, characterized by Nearly 25% of the population living in poverty, adds to morbidity and premature mortality (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). The lack of financial resources can limit access to healthcare, education, and nutritious food (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). The more significant state’s reduced 12.7% poverty percentage data indicates a correlation between Macon’s poverty and adverse health outcomes (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). This aspect makes economic factors a critical SDOH.
Community Health Concerns: Controversial community health concerns revolve around issues like healthcare access and disparities (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). Getting affordable healthcare is still a big problem, especially for people under 65 years old who fail to have health insurance. They make up 15% of the population. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). This disposition impacts the well-being of the African-American population. Economic factors, such as limited income and education, further contribute to disparities in health outcomes (U.S. News & World Report, 2024).
Community Concerns and Emergency Room Visits: Community concerns in Macon County include limited access to healthcare and economic stability (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). The worries about healthcare are seen in more people going to the emergency room. This reflection shows that more than the steps taken to stop health problems before they happen are needed to meet the community’s health needs. Inadequate resources make people depend more on emergency services for their healthcare. (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). This pattern can be detrimental to overall community health.
Quality of Life: The overall quality of life in Macon County is greatly affected by economic challenges. They include limited educational opportunities and healthcare disparities (U.S. News & World Report, 2024). There are high poverty rates with low income and fewer people having a Bachelor’s degree or higher education, which is only 10.1% for those above 25 years old. It makes it hard for the residents to have healthy and satisfying lives. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). Addressing these challenges is essential for improving the community’s overall well-being.
C Resources Currently Available
Macon County has some existing resources that address social determinants. Local clinics and health programs cater to healthcare needs. Meanwhile, the spread of broadband connectivity at 67% may help reduce poverty by directly impacting connectivity and e-commerce risk (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). These resources, although valuable, may need to be sufficient to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the subpopulation at risk.
D Resources Needed
To comprehensively address health disparities, Macon County requires additional resources. Affordable healthcare facilities are crucial for ensuring widespread access to medical services. Educational and job training programs can empower individuals economically, breaking the cycle of poverty and improving overall community health (U.S. News & World Report, 2024).
E Evidence-Based Intervention
One effective solution grounded in evidence to close the distance between the healthcare resources available and what the community needs is the introduction of Community Health Worker (CHW) programs. CHWs, trained individuals from the community, can play a pivotal role in addressing social determinants. They can provide health education and facilitate access to healthcare services (Scott et al., 2021). They can further address economic disparities within the community.
The Role of Community Health Workers: Community Health Workers are community members who are trained to serve as liaisons between the healthcare system and the community. Community Health Workers (CHWs) are familiar with the cultural details and social factors affecting health results. In Macon County, CHWs can reach out to people, organize programs, and teach residents about preventive healthcare measures (Scott et al., 2021). They can further connect individuals with available resources. By addressing the economic factors and promoting health literacy, CHWs contribute to sustainable improvements in community health.
Conclusion
Macon County, Georgia, faces intricate challenges related to health disparities rooted in socioeconomic factors and environmental concerns. Targeted interventions can be developed by understanding the demographics, environmental challenges, and social determinants affecting the subpopulation at risk. The proposed Community Health Worker programs present a workable solution. It leverages local knowledge to address health disparities comprehensively. Consequently, creating lasting change in Macon County requires essential collaboration among local authorities, healthcare providers, and community members. Through evidence-based interventions and a holistic approach, Macon County can pave the way for improved health outcomes and a better quality of life for all its residents.
References
Scott, K., Beckham, S. W., Gross, M., Pariyo, G., Rao, K. D., Cometto, G., & Perry, H. B. (2018). What do we know about community-based health worker programs? A systematic review of existing reviews on community health workers. Human resources for health, 16, 1-17.
U.S. Census Bureau. (2023). Georgia; Macon County, Georgia. https://www.census.gov/. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/GA,maconcountygeorgia/EDU685222#EDU685222
U.S. News & World Report. (2024). Overview of Macon County, GA. https://www.usnews.com/. https://www.usnews.com/news/healthiest-communities/georgia/macon-county#infrastructure
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