Sioux Falls Health Partners Announce Community-Wide Health Assessment
Feb 12, 2015
The Sioux Falls Health Department, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, and Sanford USD Medical Center have announced they will be conducting a Community Health Needs Assessment to assist community leaders in understanding the health status of Sioux Falls area residents.
“In 2012, our organizations each took a look at community-specific health data and opportunities for improving preventative health,” said Jill Franken, Public Health Director for the City of Sioux Falls. “What makes this project so exciting is that we are partnering with the two health systems and others to ensure we have one comprehensive look at the health of residents in our area.”
The health systems need to complete this type of assessment every three years, a requirement established in the Affordable Care Act, according to Dr. David Kapaska, Regional President and CEO of Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center.
“On the national level, the expectation for hospitals to play an active role in the overall health of their communities became an even higher priority,” said Dr. Kapaska. “As health care providers, the Avera Health system and the Sanford Health system are committed to providing the highest quality of care for our patients. We see great value in coming together with the Sioux Falls Health Department and its Live Well Sioux Falls initiative to learn more about our community and to work together to improve the health and well-being of our residents.”
The 2015 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) will include several components to help the partners identify priority health issues.
The first is a resident survey, which is being conducted with the help of the Center for Social Research at North Dakota State University. A survey will be mailed to a random sample of residents in the Sioux Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), which includes Minnehaha, Lincoln, Turner, and McCook counties.
“By participating in this survey, Sioux Falls area residents can help shape the future health, well‑being, and quality of life of communities in our area,” said Paul Hanson, President of Sanford USD Medical Center. “This is a random sample survey, so if residents receive a survey, we really encourage them to take some time to complete it and return it to us. Responses are confidential and will help us learn more about our community.”
In addition to the resident survey, the Community Health Needs Assessment will include a series of discussions and focus groups with residents and with representatives from work sites, other health care facilities, educational facilities, nonprofits, city and county governments, and elected officials.
The assessment process will continue collecting information throughout the spring and summer, and the partners will then develop strategies to address health concerns. All of the information will be compiled into a report that will be released in 2016.
“While this may seem like a long process, we want to be sure we have plenty of time to hear from area residents,” said Franken. “Allowing ample time for the assessment process will help us develop effective and appropriate strategies to create a healthier place to live, work, learn, and play.”
Note: You can review the 2012 Community Health Status Report here.
