Merced County 2023 Community Health Assessment
Summary: The Merced County Department of Public Health collected both qualitative and quantitative data for this local health assessment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A total of 639 surveys were completed from December 2021 to April 2022 in English, Spanish, and Hmong. The community survey was completed by 49% females and 51% males. The majority of respondents were between 30 and 39 years old with a 60% participation rate, followed by a those 25 to 29 years old with a 21% participation rate. Authors used 2017–2020 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) data.
Findings: Authors emphasize how social determinants of health play in quality of life and recommend possible solutions. For example, the top three causes of death in Merced County for 2021 were heart disease, COVID-19 and malignant neoplasms (cancer). Respondents believed the most important health problems in their community were COVID-19, followed by aging and mental health issues. The report recommended providing fitness center at worksites and allowing employees to use it during breaks and lunch to reduce heart disease. To reduce COVID-19, authors suggested that employees telecommute and vaccine advocacy through community partners as possible solutions.
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