Why We Serve
Divine Mercy Health Center
The Cost of Care
Poverty and Healthcare
Without regular, inexpensive access to healthcare, many are forced to wait for care until a medical emergency arises. These crises often result in poor outcomes and increased cost in the long-term.
Medical emergencies are devastating, negatively affecting families and communities and perpetuating the cycle of poverty for everyone involved. One out four Americans suffer from this cycle, and four out of ten have family enduring this cycle each day.
We can end this cycle, one family at a time.
Arkansas Healthcare - By the Numbers
Health
in overall health compared to other states
Income
Average income is
below
the national average
Education
Average income is
below
the national average
Outcomes
Diabetes, heart disease, etc.
worse
than national average
Access
Many counties have
limited
healthcare access
Providers
Number of doctors
below
the national average
In-Depth: Pulaski County
Pulaski County has experienced above-average population growth since 2020, resulting in the following trends:
398,000
Regional Population (2022 Census)
Rapid Growth
Pulaski County is the most populous county in Arkansas, with regional growth upwards of 2% annually (second only to Northwest Arkansas at 8%)
1:900
Ratio of Population to Medical Providers
Shrinking Coverage
Declining access to primary care results in higher rates of emergency department visits and increased mortality 1
1:225
Ratio of Population to Mental Health Providers
Lower Access
Limited access to therapy and addiction treatment result in preventable emergency department visits and increased reports of self-harm 2
18.4 Years
Impact of Poverty on Life Expectancy
Growing Poverty
As economic disparity grows, preventable diseases and chronic conditions take a toll on impoverished communities
Our Patient Population
Impoverished
No Insurance
No Primary Care
Social Determinants of Health
Health is influenced by more than genetics – many factors are beyond a person’s control.
Socio-Economics
Education, employment, income, family and community
Health Behaviors
Diet, exercise, tobacco and drug use
Health and Wellness
Reliable access to cheap, effective primary care
Physical Environment
Pollution, hazardous surroundings, clean water
Adding It Up
Access to affordable healthcare is an essential part of improving an individual’s wellbeing and lifting them out of poverty.
Our model is built on Arkansas, but it is not unique to this state – together, we can bring first-class healthcare to all.
