Date of Award

Spring 2026

Degree Type

Honors College Thesis

Academic Program

Health Sciences BS

Department

Community Health Sciences

First Advisor

Lashanda Brumfield, Ph.D.

Advisor Department

Community Health Sciences

Abstract

Rural communities across the United States suffer from poor health outcomes due to lack of resources and other compounding factors that make access to quality healthcare difficult. Mississippi is a predominantly rural state, and in the southwestern region of Mississippi lies the community of Magnolia and the community of Richard within Pike County. To better understand the health needs of Pike County, a community health needs assessment was conducted. This study aimed to assess the needs of Pike County in southwest Mississippi through the use of a community health needs assessment using focus groups. Two focus groups, with a total of 17 participants, responded to the questions asked during the focus groups. This paper examined the results from the participants and reiterated the changes needed to improve the conditions of the county. The results highlighted a need for health awareness, a lack of access to healthy food, a lack of community for all ages, and a lack of information surrounding current programs.

Comments

Blanket Permission for Future Readers: Uncertain, please contact me with future requests at the following NON-USM email address: vkbracey24@gmail.com

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