HEALTH & SAFETY
Differences in social determinants can create disparities that impact vulnerable populations in rural areas like Knox and Waldo Counties. Poverty was the most frequently mentioned social determinant followed by lack of affordable housing. Recent estimates put 23.3% of Waldo County seniors (65+) living alone putting them at risk of isolation, injury, food insecurity and more.
Access to care is also a major hurdle in rural areas. In Waldo county the number of individuals without health insurance jumped from 11.1% in 2019 to 37% by 2022. And, with a lack of available primary care providers more than 1 in 3 residents from Knox & Waldo counties were unable to see a primary care physician—at risk of not receiving routine preventative care. When they were seen, 17% of Knox residents had to travel more than 30 miles to see their PCP.
But, good work is being done by many of our grantees including: Knox Clinic, New Hope Midcoast, Waldo County General Hospital Dental Clinics, and Homeworthy. Support the great work they do by giving below. Give once, support many.
