RKN Updates Health & Human Services Data

The Regional Knowledge Network has updated nearly all Health & Human Services variables with the latest New York State data. The 63 updated variables cover six subtopics: Disease, Mortality, Health Behaviors, Child Health, Social Needs and Mental Health. Among the data's noteworthy findings is that Wyoming County is the only county in Western New York where those eligible for Medicaid managed care are not required to enroll in the program (see "Social Needs" subtopic). As a result, enrollment in Wyoming County stands at 0% compared with 72% to 87% for all other Western New York counties. Indicative of the impact of mandatory enrollment is Allegany County, which enacted such a policy in February 2007 and saw participation jump from 22.6% to 72.2% by November 2008.

Data updates range from 2006 to 2008 and are from the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Office of Child and Family Services.