Gas prices mixed bag for public health

While higher gas prices have meant fewer traffic fatalities and a potential increase in walking and bike riding, fuel costs appear to also hamper the ability of some to access health care (Source: High prices at the pump complicate health choices,” American Medical News, Aug. 5, 2008).

The National Poll on Children’s Health, taken last year by the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital found that 6 percent of parents postponed a medical visit or the purchase of medication for their children because of fuel costs. And that was when gas prices were, on average, about a dollar less than they are today.

In June, the National Association on Area Agencies on Aging reported a 53 percent decrease in the number of weekly scheduled visits because of gas prices.