Addressing Barriers to Preventive Healthcare Access Through Community Outreach in Underserved Populations

<p>Access to preventive healthcare is a significant public health challenge, particularly for underserved populations in Muscogee County, Georgia. This project addresses systemic barriers such as transportation, limited health education, and economic constraints, which contribute to health disparities and reliance on emergency room services. Guided by the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) framework and the Health Belief Model (HBM), the project aims to enhance access to preventive care, improve health literacy and identify barriers to healthcare access.</p> <p>This program evaluation report examined a community-based initiative that utilized a mobile health unit to improve access to preventive healthcare in underserved areas of Muscogee County, Georgia. The mobile unit delivered health screenings, education, and referrals, while culturally and linguistically appropriate materials were distributed to enhance community understanding of preventive care. Data were collected during mobile visits to analyze demographic trends and identify barriers to healthcare access. These findings informed the local Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). The outcome indicated improvements in health literacy and a reduction in emergency room visits for preventable conditions. The report demonstrated success in advancing health equity by addressing systemic barriers and promoting proactive health behaviors. By bridging critical gaps in health care, this intervention contributed to sustainable improvements in health outcomes for underserved populations while informing broader public health strategies.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Health Science

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Kinesiology and Health Sciences

Year

2025

Author dc:creator

• Sparks, Deneisha

Contributors dc:contributor

• Dr. Patricia Anafi
• Dr. Rebecca Toland

• Preventive Healthcare
• Muscogee County
• Georgia
• Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
• Health Belief Model (HBM)
• Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA)
• Community Health and Preventive Medicine
• Public Health
• Public Health Education and Promotion

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://csuepress.columbusstate.edu/theses_dissertations/739

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:csuepress.columbusstate.edu:theses_dissertations-1730