What are the barriers in our community to accessing health care services?

Insurance issues received the most attention, with participants voicing concern over high deductibles and middle income working people who can't afford premiums. There was also considerable attention given to the difficulties rural people have with transportation, the lack of funds for and awareness of mental health services, the need for a cancer center in Fort Dodge, and the high cost of prescription drugs.

What health specialty areas are needed or need to be improved?

A cancer center for the Fort Dodge area was a high priority for each focus group. More affordable mental health services, more dentists that will accept Title IXX, and the need for an urgent care center were also issues that were frequently mentioned.

Are there any needs or concerns in regards to health insurance?

The number of low paying jobs with no insurance is a problem in our community. Participants also expressed concern about the increasing cost of health insurance - particularly in premiums and deductibles, and the rising cost of prescription drugs. There was also some feeling that Iowa hospitals are receiving inadequate Medicare reimbursement.

What are the most pressing health needs in our community?

Again, the need for a cancer center for the Fort Dodge area was a high priority for each focus group. There was common agreement that substance abuse issues (including tobacco use) among adults and teens need to be addressed. Affordable health care coverage, mental health care, and transportation were also mentioned again.

What environmental health concerns do we have in our community?

Water safety was a common topic of discussion and concern. The high incidence of cancer and asthma in Webster County has many people worried about the environmental safety of our community. Tobacco use among pregnant women and second-hand smoke are concerns.

What are the most pressing social problems or concerns in our community?

The most frequently mentioned problems and concerns were substance abuse, violence, teen pregnancy, the need for diversity/cultural awareness, the lack of child care and activities for older children, and domestic and sexual assault.