MAPP program releases health survey findings

The Owen County MAPP program, sponsored by the Three Rivers Health Department, has been researching the health priorities of the community.

Committee chair Melody Stafford said the results of a health survey revealed some suprising results. Of the 1,000 survey responses, over 700 reported having health insurance. Nearly 600 people considered Owen County a safe and healthy place to live.

Drug abuse, alcohol abuse and tobacco use are reported as the most risky behaviors. Drug abuse, along with cancer and heart disease, were identified as the greatest heath problems. Survey-takers felt the most important things needed for a healthy Owen County are good schools, a good place to raise children and a good economy.

Stafford said the committee may need to look beyond the surface of the survey results. For example, the majority of survey-takers were women who reported a household income of over $50,000. She said there might be other health concerns that were not revealed in the results.

The next step for the committee will be to pick one health issue to focus on. She said they would look for common themes in the survey. She said the survey is one step in the larger process of health and safety management.

“If we work together we can improve the health and safety of our community,” Stafford said.