Data from 2024 shows the five leading causes of death in our community are heart disease, cancer, diabetes, covid 19, and accidents. Many factors and barriers can contribute to and create health disparities in a community: low educational attainment, language barriers, and low socioeconomic status are among the most widespread.
A significant portion of Jersey City’s population, however, is not aware of how to access and best utilize healthcare services. Medical concepts like health benefits and expense reimbursement can be difficult for residents to understand. Uncertainty of cost such as deductibles and copays may deter individuals from meeting appointments with primary care physicians and specialists and receiving proper medical care.
Navigating healthcare services can often be challenging for anyone, especially for people with chronic illnesses who may require adherence to a complex daily regimen, dietary restrictions, and regular monitoring of health indicators such as blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and respiratory rate.
Numerous research studies have documented that self-management and informed health decisions support informed health choices. Non-proper care of chronic diseases can lead to improved quality of life and clinical outcomes.
Health Education is at the forefront of the effort to empower individuals to make straightforward decisions. However, the Partnership for a Healthier JC advocates for support initiatives that empower individuals to be proactive and self-advocate for better health services and provide health education to help improve the management of the five leading causes of death in our community.