Study Finds Health Disparities in Ventura County
About 15% of Ventura County residents younger than 65 years old are uninsured, according to a recent study, the Ventura County Star reports. According to researchers, there are significant disparities in health care access and the overall health of several populations in the county.
Researchers analyzed data from the county Department of Public Health, the U.S. Census and other sources to examine health trends in the six counties that comprise the Central Coast region.
The study found that 11% of Ventura County residents were Medi-Cal beneficiaries. In addition, the number of people in the region between the ages of 45 and 64 is expected to increase from about 20% to 30% of the population by 2010, a demographic change that likely will increase the need for health services.
According to the Star, researchers recommended that area officials:
- Study the changing demographics of the region;
- Work with "hidden" populations;
- Identify needs specific to individual communities;
- Work to prevent obesity in children and adults;
- Focus on oral health care; and
- Compile current health data (Richard, Ventura County Star, 6/21).