METHODS: The community needs assessment was rapidly fielded between December 2014 and January 2015. A telephone survey, with some supplemental face-to-face interviews, was administered to a simple random sample of 5,000 adult residents aged 35 and older in the intervention developments. Of those approached, 43.5% completed the survey, and 1,123 interviews were completed. Six focus groups were held among 55 residents with hypertension, diabetes, and/or asthma—the three conditions that qualify residents for CHW services. Findings presented here are from survey participants in the intervention developments.
RESULTS: Almost all (95%) residents reported having health insurance coverage; however, at some point in the past year, 28% had a problem with their insurance and 10% were temporarily without insurance. Among all residents, 14% reported needing medical care in the past year and not receiving it, and 18% reported relying on emergency departments for regular medical care.
Nearly 40% of adults reported that poor health limits their activities. Three-quarters (77%) reported height and weight levels consistent with being overweight or obese, 21% reported currently smoking, and 14% reported their diet was somewhat or very unhealthy. More than half (54%) reported a diagnosis of hypertension, 29% reported diagnosed diabetes, and 12% reported current asthma. Nearly one-third (31%) of hypertensive residents reported sometimes forgetting to take their medicine. Within the past year, 8% of diabetic residents were hospitalized due to diabetes, and 35% of asthmatic residents used an emergency room. Among residents with asthma, diabetes, and/or hypertension, nearly half (47%) reported interest in receiving CHW/HA services.
CONCLUSIONS: Needs assessment findings highlight the current health status and needs of public housing residents. Residents face challenges navigating insurance, managing their chronic conditions and avoiding unnecessary visits to the hospital. Many report interest in CHW services.