The Columbia County Healthcare Consortium contracted with Siena Research Institute to survey Greene and Columbia county residents about their health, lifestyles, and opinions on health issues. The survey of 1,200 households revealed:
• 90 percent of respondents said they have a primary care doctor, a high number compared to other regions.
• 97 percent of people with a doctor saw theirs within the past two years.
• 60 percent surveryed are either overweight or obese in our two counties, and only about 25 percent are trying to lose weight.
• 75 percent favor restaurants promoting healthier menus.
• 70 percent favor requiring restaurants to post calorie amounts.
• 90 percent favor restaurants offering smaller portions for a lower price.
• 70 percent oppose a five-cent tax increase on soda or junk food items, or increasing the tax on beer by a nickel per 12-ounce serving.
The full results of the survey on on the Consortium's website.