HEALTHCARE ACCESS AND QUALITY
Access to quality healthcare is more than a basic need—it’s a key driver of individual and community well-being. When people can secure timely, effective care—whether preventive screenings, routine checkups, or critical treatments—they live healthier lives, experience fewer medical complications, and contribute more fully to society.
However, many individuals face significant barriers to care. Economic hardship, racial and cultural biases, language barriers, and geographic isolation continue to limit access for many. These gaps don’t just impact individuals; they ripple through entire communities, increasing healthcare costs, straining emergency services, and reducing workforce productivity.
The Indy Health District is tackling these challenges head-on. By leveraging data-driven insights and uniting key stakeholders, we are working to bridge these gaps, expand access, and align resources with community needs to create a sustainable model for long-term community well-being. A healthier population isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a strategic investment in economic growth, social stability, and a more resilient future for Indianapolis.
Prenatal Care in the 1st Trimester
This metric reflects the percentage of all live births where the mother received prenatal care in the first trimester. Receiving early and regular prenatal care promotes a healthy pregnancy and a healthy start to life and can improve health outcomes for both mothers and infants. These prenatal care visits include monitoring the baby’s development, managing maternal health conditions, and ensuring that both mother and baby receive appropriate nutritional support. Prenatal care also includes important screenings and immunizations that protect against infectious diseases, further safeguarding maternal and infant health.
The goal of the district is to increase equitable access to quality prenatal care in the first trimester for all pregnant persons in the health district.
DID YOU KNOW?
When expectant mothers receive prenatal care in a group setting, where they not only see a healthcare provider but also connect with other moms-to-be for education and support, the risk of premature birth drops by 58% compared to traditional care. The impact is even greater for Black mothers, who historically face the highest rates of preterm delivery. (Lewis, et al, 2024- Learn More)
This is more than healthcare—it’s community, education, and support coming together to create healthier beginnings for our babies. Investing in innovative, inclusive care models can make a lasting difference for families and future generations.
District residents are accessing prenatal care in the first trimester at a rate that is similar to women across Marion County (62.8% in 2023), though lower than women across the state (73.4% in 2023). (County and state rates per Indiana Department of Health.)
Note: to see additional data about this metric, click the arrow (< >) on the image below. For more details, hover your cursor or click on points within the image.
Note: to see additional data about this metric, click the arrow (< >) on the image below. For more details, hover your cursor or click on points within the image.
Note: Areas outlined in black represent the district.
The map shows that there are pockets within the district where access to prenatal care differs, and some residents may face more barriers to prenatal care than others. The Indy Health District will work with partners to reduce barriers to prenatal care and support equal access for all.
Annual Checkup RATE among Adults
The estimated percentage of adults who report having been to a doctor for a routine checkup in the past 12 months (not a visit for a specific illness or injury). These checkups typically include a physical examination, review of medical history, assessment of vital signs, and various screenings and tests based on age, gender, and health risks. Annual checkups provide an opportunity for preventive care, such as vaccinations, screenings for chronic diseases (like diabetes and cancer), and counseling on lifestyle changes. Preventive measures can help maintain health and prevent the onset of diseases.
Investing in prevention today means a stronger, healthier future for individuals, families, and communities. Taking that first step—whether it’s an annual checkup, a screening, or a wellness visit—can make all the difference.
The goal of the district is that residents of the area ACCESS annual checkups at a rate that is equal or better than the county rate.
DID YOU KNOW?
Regular checkups and preventive care aren’t just for when you’re feeling unwell—they play a powerful role in catching health issues early, sometimes even preventing diseases before they start. When people have access to routine care, they can take charge of their health, enjoy a better quality of life, and live longer, healthier lives.