HEALTH
Problem #3: Polk County is the 9th most obese county in the nation.
Background:
1. Community studies conducted by Lakeland Regional Hospital, Polk County Health Department, Central
Florida Health Care and Bay Care all agree that illnesses related to obesity are the #1 health concern in
Polk County. Obesity related problems such as hypertension, heart attack, stroke and diabetes, are
considered the most critical health issues in Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties.
a. Routine preventative medical care, proper diet and exercise can improve these health factors
2. Behavioral health (mental illness and substance abuse) is the #2 concern
a. Mental illness and substance abuse affect physical health, financial stability and family stability.
The ability to succeed in school or work is diminished when students or adults are dealing with
mental illness or substance abuse. There is a shortage of affordable counselors in Polk County.
Tele-counseling is helping, but the crisis continues.
3. The need for dental care is #3 health crisis in Polk County. An infected tooth can be painful and life
threatening. Families who can’t afford dental care or insurance go to the Emergency Room for dental
emergencies. Hospitals can treat the infection, but not the tooth, so the problems continue in a vicious
and expensive cycle. Emergency Rooms are the most expensive and least efficient way to treat dental
problems. There is a critical shortage of dental services for low-income adults and children.
4. People with access to health services have a greater chance of avoiding chronic disease and achieving
better health. 15% of all Polk County residents have no health insurance. The percentage of low-
income families with no health insurance is much higher.
5. No one does their best at work or in school if they are sick, hungry or in pain.
6. Crystal Lake, a Community Partnership School includes a full service health clinic and access to
individual and family counseling along with substance abuse treatment. Many in the community use
the Emergency Room as their “medical home.” How do we convince the community to use the clinic
where they can have a family doctor who provides consistent, individualized care? How do we engage
families in family activities or counseling that will benefit parents and children?