Life expectancy and overall health have improved in recent years for most Americans, thanks in part to a focus on preventive medicine and dynamic new advances in technology. Not all Americans are benefiting equally, however, as compelling evidence shows that those in minority racial and ethnic groups experience many health problems at higher rates compared with the population as a whole.  The 2007 study examined the issue of health inequalities in health status, health outcomes and health care in Onondaga County in order to shed light on the issue, increase awareness locally, and spur additional dialogue and action to address health disparities.

The purpose of the study was to determine how well the local mental health services infrastructure has adapted to changes in delivery systems, especially deinstitutionalization.  The presentations included: consumers' experiences of local mental health services; the impact of mental illness on related community systems, such as law enforcement, schools, employers, social services, and religious institutions; and the role of funding mechanisms on access.  Overall, panelists described a variety of symptoms that indicate a dysfunctional system. The local assessment parallels the findings of the recently released report from the President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health. Many of the potential solutions proposed on the national level could be applicable to the local situation.