Health
Unfortunately, too many of our neighbors lack access to basic health care - in particular preventive care which can reduce the incidence of chronic diseases like diabetes or diagnose problems early and intervene to prevent costly complications from conditions such as high blood pressure.
With health care costs outpacing inflation and growth in wages and with many Central Kentuckians living without health insurance, even a minor health crisis can lead families to financial ruin.
What’s the problem?
- 11,659 children and 121,183 adults are without health insurance
- 96,350 Central Kentuckians are obese
- 1-in-4 pregnant women smoke during pregnancy
- 37% of Kentucky’s children are overweight
- 68% of Central Kentucky’s population is either obese or overweight
What’s the affect on our community?
- $1.2 million spent on healthcare in Kentucky related to tobacco use.
- Each household in Kentucky contributes $567/year on tobacco related heath issues, whether they smoke or not.
- Healthcare costs for someone obese are 36% higher than non-obese; prescriptions are 77% higher.
- Many families are one medical emergency away from financial crisis.
- Healthier children miss fewer days of school and are more "ready to learn."
- The uninsured are less likely to access preventive care or seek early treatment of illness and therefore may miss more time at work or school.
- Using health care appropriately, instead of the ER in non-emergencies, is better for patients and lowers cost of health care to society.
- Untreated mental health problems are a dimension of homelessness, academic achievement and independence.
- Children's mental health issues affect the entire family and those around them – including other children at school.
United Way is making a difference through
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Preventive Health for Children
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Healthy Living for Adults and Seniors
- Access to Resources for a Healthy Life
From access to health care to nutrition and fitness, United Way of the Bluegrass and its partners are targeting health issues that not only affect individuals, but our entire community.
Learn more about
Our Financial Stability partners and their programs
How You Can Help