Content area
Abstract
The Northwest Florida Counties of Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa are connected by land and industry but possess very different public health outcomes. In this study, I examine the possible causes behind a greater-than national level infant mortality rate for two of the counties and the why one of these counties possesses a much lower rate. Through semi-structured interviews and geospatial analysis, I examine indicators of health that contribute to higher infant mortality. A theoretical lens of structural violence, habitus, and structural determinants of health brings attention to the invisible violence that is causing infant death within Northwest Florida. Research questions include: What factors are contributing to infant mortality in NWFL? How might health care access and literacy contribute to poor infant health outcomes? What interventions could help improve HL and health care access for those experiencing significant barriers to care in NWFL? Indicators that were found as possible contributors to higher infant mortality rates were poor health literacy, poor access to resources like health care, transportation, and education, and poverty.
