Patricia Alessi
According to the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to “a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control” (“Universal Declaration of Human Rights”). Moreover, the American Declaration on the Rights and Duties of Man states shat everyone has the right to “preservation of his health through sanitary and social measures relating to food, clothing, housing and medical care, to the extent permitted by public and community resources.”
It was mentioned in class that the Steering Committee was looking for suggestions on how to address human rights. The following are some ideas about how to approach the issue of health and healthcare.
Passing legislation making healthcare universal in both cities. Passing legislation at the local level is a first step in getting universal healthcare coverage passed and supported at the state and federal levels.
Providing healthcare to all in both Chapel Hill and Carrboro.
Providing transportation to those who do not have transportation to healthcare facilities. This may include making public transportation available on Saturdays and Sundays, having more extensive routes, having transportation available longer hours, and more.
Sending letters to state and federal governments demanding that universal healthcare is made available for all—and that it is funded for all.
Reading the “Orange County Community Health Assessment, December 2007”. What I have discussed is only scratching the surface of what the health assessment has uncovered. Reading and discussing with those who have put together the assessment would be a great start in changing Chapel Hill and Carrboro and how the two cities deal with healthcare.
Making residents in both cities aware of the healthcare issue.
Making residents aware of current resources available to those who qualify. Anything from sending flyers to each house to posting it in the local newspapers would be helpful.
Working with university-led student groups that are raising awareness about healthcare issues in Orange County. They may have some fantastic ideas about how to combat this issue!
Widening the limits placed on existing healthcare programs to include those who are currently “falling through the cracks.”
Having people in healthcare programs being able to have continuity of care—with a primary care provider, emergency care to maintenance care, etc.
Making sure that adequate housing exists for all—housing that allows and encourages the health of its inhabitants.
Making sure that all have access to nutritious food.
Checking work environments to make sure that they meet health standards.
Educating children and adults about health, healthcare, healthy habits, etc. to encourage and maintain health in Orange County residents.
Making sure that physical activity is available and allowed in schools as well as healthy options and ideas given to adults.
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