19 Feb Resources and Barriers for Vulnerable Populations
In previous discussions, you have explored your chosen community’s history, geographic characteristics, demographics, and major health concerns. In this discussion, you will wrap up the assessment process by identifying some vulnerable populations within your community, examining the adequacy of your community’s resources for these populations, and exploring potential barriers these populations might encounter within the community. Directions: In the discussion #4 forum, create a new discussion thread and address the following questions. Keep in mind that you are being asked to think critically about your community. Focus on providing insightful analysis. Support with evidence/data.
1) Looking back at your chosen community’s characteristics, demographics, and health concerns, identify one population within the community that could be considered vulnerable. What resources are available for this population?
Consider multiple determinants of health: services (access to quality healthcare, adequate social services/support), education (quality of public schools, opportunities for higher education and/or vocational training), public safety (adequate police coverage, trusted law enforcement), religious and civic organizations (congregations and/or groups especially active in improving the health of the vulnerable), and local/regional government (accessible, open to health and/or social improvement efforts).
2) What barriers exist for improving the health of vulnerable population within the community? Consider factors such as funding, readiness of the community to change, quality of leadership within the community, education and health literacy level of community members, cultural issues, etc.
