Every three years, APD, Dartmouth Health, and other area nonprofit healthcare organizations invite everyone in our service areas – community residents, leaders, healthcare providers, and others – to complete the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). This important survey gathers data about community health concerns and opportunities to improve community health and care delivery systems. In short, it helps determine community health priorities for our region for the next three years.
Insights gained from data collected in prior years has led to funding and development of APD programs like Upper Valley Smiles (community dental care in schools), Primary Care food bags for patients experiencing food insecurity, FitScripts (encouraging healthy lifestyles through referrals to area fitness centers), and more.
According to Beth O’Donnell, MPH, Director of Community Health at APD, the CHNA and the work that comes out of it is strongest when a variety of people, from all walks of life, roles, and sectors, contribute their views.
“We want to hear from you, whether you are a community resident, patient, APD employee, provider, care partner, or leader,” Beth said. “With your help, we can construct an accurate picture of community needs, and create strategies to respond to those needs.”
Please take the CHNA! It takes about 10 minutes to complete and it will make a difference in your community. Find it here.