Regional survey finds increased financial and health-care pressures
The Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization’s 2026 community survey found increased reports of financial strain, housing concerns and difficulty accessing local health care across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties, along with gains in some preventive-care measures.
By the ClickNNY North Country Desk
The Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization’s 11th annual Community Health Survey found increased financial and housing pressures among adults in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties. The survey also reported that 53% had difficulty accessing local health care during the previous year, compared with 42% in 2023, with long wait times and provider availability identified as leading barriers.
The survey reported that 21% of respondents had skipped meals because of a lack of money for food, while concern about losing housing rose from 7.5% in 2024 to 15.9% in 2026. At the same time, colorectal cancer screening among adults ages 45 to 75 reached 84%, mammogram use among women ages 40 to 75 reached 85%, and routine dental checkups returned to 67%.
The survey also found that 67% of adults reported at least one chronic condition. The Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization said the findings are intended to help hospitals, public health departments and community organizations plan outreach and services.
Reported by ClickNNY and reviewed by an editor before publication.
More from ClickNNY
Guides and features from across the North Country.
ClickNNY Guide · Community
Protecting hibernating bats in St. Lawrence County: what to know
New York residents, including those in St. Lawrence County, can help protect hibernating bats by avoiding restricted caves and mines, limiting tree removal during the winter, and using trained wildlife professionals for bats in homes.
ClickNNY Special Report · Technology
The Good. The Bad. The Rogue.
AI agents are here, working for us, being used against us and, it appears, sometimes doing what nobody told them to. What it means for North Country jobs, money and privacy, and what is still unanswered.
ClickNNY Guide · Community
Halloween poisoning hazards in the North Country: what parents should know
The Upstate New York Poison Center advises families to secure medicines, cannabis, alcohol, batteries and Halloween products, and to call its free 24/7 helpline at 1-800-222-1222 after a possible poisoning.