A community health need assessment (CHNA) is conducted every three years and is an examination of the health status indicators for a given population that is used to identify key problems and assets in a community. Community health assessment data informs community decision-making, the prioritization of health problems and the development, implementation and the evaluation of community health improvement plans. The ultimate goal of a community health assessment is to develop strategies to address the community’s health needs and identified issues.
The essential ingredients in conducting a community health assessment are community engagement and collaborative participation. Clay County conducted its first Community Health Assessment in 2015 with the Northland Health Alliance and other community partners.