Community-Wide Priority Needs
Poor health status results from a complex interaction
of challenging social, economic, environmental, and
behavioral factors combined with a lack of access to
care. Addressing these “root” causes is an important
way improve a community’s quality of life and to
reduce mortality and morbidity.

The table that follows describes the health issues
identified throughout the assessment as priorities
across the community served by the hospital. These
problems affect the St. Clair community as a whole.

Health issues are listed in alphabetical order.

Access to Care
• Lack of Affordable and Accessible Care
Community residents identified cost of care, increased insurance co-pays and restrictions, and being
uninsured as key problems impacting access to care. Access to dentist visits is a problem in the community;
residents often identified inadequate coverage as the reason.

• Lack of Affordable and Accessible Mental and Behavioral Health Facilities/Services
Community residents identified a lack of supportive services and outreach programs, particularly for young
adults, teens, and their families, and supportive housing programs for those with a behavioral health
diagnosis. Access to substance abuse treatment and some specialized behavioral health services is also a
problem. In addition, inpatient behavioral health beds are no longer available as some private hospitals have
closed, and state hospital beds are less available.

• Lack of Resources for Providers
Budget cuts have restricted the number of people who can qualify for various public programs and services.

Safety net providers described themselves as being “at capacity” and are increasingly stretched due to higher
demand and declines in governmental and philanthropic funding sources.

• Lack of Services and Care for Seniors
Increased care management is needed for seniors, especially those with behavioral and chronic conditions.

Transportation to health services is also an issue for this population.

Health Behaviors
• Prevalent Drug Use
Drug use is an issue, particularly in Allegheny County. The lack of mental and behavioral health treatment
services identified above compounds the problem.

Health Conditions
• Prevalent Diet and Exercise Related Conditions
High rates of obesity and diabetes were identified as priority issues. These conditions are related to poor diets
and a lack of physical activity. Diabetes mortality is also a priority issue in the community.

Mortality Rates
• High Rates of Injury and Violence Mortality
Data show that accidental falls mortality and firearm related mortality are problematic.

• High Rates of Cirrhosis Mortality
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• High Rates of Mortality for Young Adults Ages 20-24
Physical Environment
Poor Air Quality
Social and Economic Factors
• Low and Moderate Income Populations Unable to Meet Basic Needs
Due to the recent economic downturn and changes in employment, many households are struggling to meet
basic needs such as housing and utilities. These concerns are often given priority over obtaining preventive
health care, especially when a household cannot afford care due to a lack of insurance coverage or rising co
payments. Transportation to health services is also an issue for this population.

St. Clair Hospital
Community Health Needs Assessment
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