The Pivital Public Health Partnership, working with eight local health departments in the Finger Lakes, says more than 1,700 residents shared their experiences in the Access to Health Care Survey conducted between July and November 2024.
The feedback is helping shape efforts to improve care in Chemung, Livingston, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, and Yates counties.
What residents said
Survey results showed both strengths and challenges in the region’s health care system:
- Not enough providers: Many residents struggle to find doctors, dentists, or mental health professionals, especially in rural areas.
- Transportation issues: People without cars or those living far from care often cannot reliably make appointments.
- Insurance problems: Residents without insurance — and those using Medicaid — reported longer waits and longer travel times.
- Unequal access: Non-White residents, rural communities, and Plain community members (Amish/Mennonite) face added barriers, including less preventive care and more trouble accessing appointments.
- Community strengths: Despite these challenges, respondents praised local groups, volunteers, nonprofits, and hospitals for providing important support.
What’s next
The eight health departments and their partners are reviewing the results and considering next steps. Options being discussed include:
- Recruiting more doctors, nurses, and therapists to the region.
- Expanding transportation options for medical appointments.
- Helping residents better understand and use their health insurance.
- Making health care information clearer and easier to access for non-English speakers.
- Improving the availability of mental health and substance use services.
Officials say community input will be key as they explore these solutions. Residents, health care providers, and local organizations will be invited to help shape what comes next.
Want to learn more or share ideas? Contact your local health department. To view the full report, visit the Pivital Public Health
Partnership website
• Chemung County: 607-737-2028
• Seneca County: 315‑539‑1920
• Ontario County: 585-396-4343
• Steuben County: 607‑664‑2438
• Livingston County: 585‑243‑7270
• Wayne County: 315 946-5749
• Schuyler County: 607‑535‑8140
• Yates County: 315‑536‑5160
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