PRIORITY POPULATIONS
Priority populations such as older adults, people with disabilities, immigrants, and refugees face unique challenges that can significantly impact their health outcomes. Accessing services is often difficult, particularly in rural areas, due to barriers such as limited transportation, language barriers, and inadequate health insurance coverage. In Berkshire County, 24% of the population is 65 and over (WRHSAC, 2023). The Berkshire Immigrant Center (BIC) estimates that the county is home to over 10,000 foreign-born residents. The reports below provide population-specific insights and health equity data to help better understand the needs of these communities.
Data & Reports

WRHSAC Equity Data Project - Berkshire County (2023)
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Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. Area Plan on Aging 2026-2029
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New England Rural Health Association's Rural Data Analysis Dashboard
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Rural Health Information Hub's Data Explorer - Massachusetts
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Rural Institute Research & Training Center on Disability in Rural Communities' Data Dashboard
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Higher Ed Immigration Portal: Massachusetts
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Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition: Massachusetts reports & data​​​​
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State Plan for Independent Living (2025-2027)
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