Stark County Health Department survey reveals women's barriers to healthcare

A year ago, the Stark County Health Department asked women aged 18 to 44, what barriers they have faced, in getting healthcare. They asked this population due to receiving a maternal child health grant through the Ohio Department of Health. 

We now know that the more than 300 women who either participated in a survey or focus group, said that they struggle on a few different fronts. 

One, just getting to their appointments can be a struggle, due to transportation issues, or even getting the time off work to go, since their doctor does not offer evening or weekend appointments.

Another barrier was feeling discriminated against, ignored, or unsafe in a healthcare setting - due to a facet of their identity, such as their race or gender. 

This hour on the "Sound of Ideas," we'll start by digging into the results of this survey, what it tells us about women and the healthcare system as a whole, and hear how the Stark County Health department hopes to work with providers to improve women's experiences overall.  

Then, we'll talk about the one of the biggest days of the year for nonprofits and charities,Giving Tuesday, and talk to organizations in Northeast Ohio who are supporting those in need in our community. 

And, we'll bring you this month's installment of ideastream's Applause Performances series. We'll hear the musical stylings of R&B artist Alvin Frazier.

- Kelly Potkay, Health Educator and Accreditation Coordinator, Stark County Health Department 
- John Panza, President, Panza Foundation 
- Dameyonna Willis, Founder, Queen IAM
- Linda Uveges, CEO, The City Mission
- David C. Barnett, Senior Arts Reporter, Ideastream Public Media 
- Alvin Frazier, Musician & Member, Dazz Band

Resources

The City Mission

Queen IAM

Panza Foundation