There are large numbers of citizens of the Coachella Valley with little or no insurance. Greater efforts need to be made to assure these individuals have access to quality care.
Recent data from Washington regarding the number of uninsured indicates that the numbers keep rising dramatically. In 2000, the number was 14.2% of the population. In 2001, it went up to 14.6%, increasing by 1.4 milion people. Hispanics comprise 33.2% of the uninsured, Blacks 19%,Whites 13.6%, and White (non-Hispanic) another 13.6%. With the large Hispanic population of the Coachella Valley, these statistics are important indicators. The Desert Healthcare District needs to expand its efforts to provide access and affordable healthcare to those who are disenfranchised. Young and old alike are struggling to get adequate services. When the decision of whether to go to the doctor is contingent upon being able to afford to, most times the individual is opting to forego treatment. This decision, in the long run, creates a more serious health issue and ultimately falls to the medical/welfare system to address.
The Desert Healthcare Foundation, the program arm of the District, provides services such as the Suzanne Jackson Breast Cancer Screening program, the Smile Factory (providing free dental screening and treatment to children in the District's school system), the Desert Health Car (providing free transportation to medical appointments). The District should expand its support of these programs and foster new programs which address the multitude of other needs in the Valley.
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