Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
Primary Care in Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Biology
Minor
Chemistry
Presentation Format
Event
Abstract/Description
Abstract
American Healthcare is a popular and often heated topic. As of 2023, the biggest problems in American healthcare consist of the availability, affordability, and quality of primary care in rural areas. Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois are notoriously known for being underserved and have been prioritized as areas that need primary care growth and improvement. Out of all 50 states, Illinois is third highest in Medically Underserved Areas per population and Kentucky is 44th overall in healthcare quality. Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky are some of the poorest parts of their respective states and are often overlooked due to small population size. The focus of this study is to provide insight into the specific primary care needs of each county in these specific regions. Data available from the two regions will be analyzed to understand the demographics, wealth and insurance coverage, and access to primary care each county has. Based on these factors, primary care needs will then be identified per county. Conclusions from this study can then be used to aid the growth and improvement of primary care in these two regions.
Spring Scholars Week 2023 Event
Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
Primary Care in Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky
Abstract
American Healthcare is a popular and often heated topic. As of 2023, the biggest problems in American healthcare consist of the availability, affordability, and quality of primary care in rural areas. Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois are notoriously known for being underserved and have been prioritized as areas that need primary care growth and improvement. Out of all 50 states, Illinois is third highest in Medically Underserved Areas per population and Kentucky is 44th overall in healthcare quality. Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky are some of the poorest parts of their respective states and are often overlooked due to small population size. The focus of this study is to provide insight into the specific primary care needs of each county in these specific regions. Data available from the two regions will be analyzed to understand the demographics, wealth and insurance coverage, and access to primary care each county has. Based on these factors, primary care needs will then be identified per county. Conclusions from this study can then be used to aid the growth and improvement of primary care in these two regions.