Burke County partners with UNC Health Blue Ridge for community health assessment outcomes

Burke County, NC, is set to tackle pressing health issues following the approval of the 2022 Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan during a recent commission meeting. Public Health Educator Miranda Smith presented key findings from the assessment, which highlighted three critical health priorities for the county: mental health, substance use disorder, and obesity.

The assessment, conducted in partnership with UNC Health Blue Ridge, involved extensive data collection through surveys and focus groups, yielding 2,149 responses. The results indicated that mental health concerns, particularly anxiety and depression, significantly affect residents' overall health, prompting the selection of a Community Paramedicine Program to address these issues.

Substance use disorder emerged as another priority, with Burke County noted for having one of the highest drug overdose rates in North Carolina. To combat this, the plan includes initiatives like the Eat, Sleep, and Consult program in collaboration with UNC Health Blue Ridge and the Burke Recovery Court Program.

Obesity was identified as a third priority, with 36% of adults in Burke County classified as obese, largely due to limited access to fresh produce. The plan aims to improve this situation through programs such as the Women, Infants, and Children Fresh Food Voucher Program, which helps residents obtain fresh fruits and vegetables.

The commission expressed support for the assessment and improvement plan, which will guide health initiatives over the next three years. Smith also announced that the next community health assessment is underway, with results expected to be presented in November 2025. This ongoing commitment to public health underscores Burke County's proactive approach to addressing the health needs of its residents.