Assessment of Trends in Population-Based Health Indicators in the Great Plain States

Purpose/Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the geographic trends and to highlight the importance of social and geographic based health disparities using population health indicators and Health determinants among the great plains states (Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota). Methods/efforts: Online databases (CDC, BRFSS, America’s Health Rankings, SAMHSA, County health rankings etc) were accessed to collect data population-based data for the great plains states. The incident rates of 10 health indicators and health determinants were chosen and studied. After tabulating the data in excel, the analysis was made through plotting graphs in SAS. Line graphs depicting the increase/decrease in the incidence rates were obtained describing the changes in trends with respect to each of the health indicators over the past decade. Results/findings: Among the 10 health indicators/determinants studied, the incidences of death due to alcohol-impaired driving and Chlamydia were significantly higher than the national average. The use of cigarettes among youths between the age range of 12-17 has shown a steep decline over the years. Application to the field/research: Health indicators are important tools used in the assessment of the overall health of the population. It could help in prioritizing the area of focus for improvement. It can depict the impact and disease burden, of the condition in the area. Influence new policy-making. Indicate the need for evaluations of the existing policies and interventions. Population trends give a representation of the success or failure of the health policies and interventions and gives an idea of the progress of the current healthcare programs and allocation of resources. The data also provides a source of comparison between the three states and draws attention towards improving the health outcomeshttps://digitalcommons.unmc.edu/coph_pres/1012/thumbnail.jp