A community health needs assessment (CHNA) is a vital tool for identifying health priorities and guiding data-driven strategies to improve public health. CHNAs typically rely on data analysis to identify community health concerns. However, equitable CHNAs go beyond data collection, actively involving community members to address structural health barriers and amplify diverse voices.
Developing a Comprehensive Community Engagement Plan
An inclusive CHNA begins with a well-defined community engagement strategy. Dayton Children’s Hospital redesigned its CHNA approach in 2023, aiming for broader representation and a more equitable data collection process. The institution prioritised listening to the voices of underserved populations and developed targeted strategies to ensure inclusivity.
Key to this approach was establishing outreach specialists—individuals recruited from specific communities trained to engage with residents and collect data effectively. These specialists played a central role in ensuring diverse representation, reaching populations often underrepresented in previous assessments.
To gather meaningful insights, the hospital introduced multiple survey formats tailored to different community settings. A short five-item survey was used at busy events for quick feedback, while a longer, 10-item version provided a more detailed data collection option. Both surveys prioritised cultural responsiveness and allowed data collection through mobile devices, printed forms and digital links. By focusing on areas with historically low community representation, Dayton Children’s Hospital significantly expanded the inclusivity and effectiveness of its assessment process.
Strengthening Partnerships and Improving Data Collection Methods
Collaborating with community organisations was essential for the CHNA’s success. Established partnerships with local groups allowed the hospital to collect data efficiently while ensuring the participation of diverse demographic groups. Engaging with trusted local organisations also helped build trust and encourage participation in the assessment process.
Between March and May 2023, the hospital attended 67 community events, collecting over 2,100 survey responses. This represented a substantial increase from previous assessment cycles. Outreach specialists with flexible schedules played a critical role in engaging diverse populations and increasing participation from underrepresented groups.
Despite this progress, language barriers persisted as a challenge. Spanish was the most common non-English language encountered, but the need for Swahili, Kinyarwanda and Turkish interpreters also emerged. To address this, Dayton Children’s Hospital partnered with immigrant-focused organisations for translation services and plans to further expand multilingual resources in future assessments.
The assessment process also highlighted the need for flexibility in data collection methods. Tools such as multilingual postcards with QR codes and printed surveys allowed data collection to adapt to different cultural contexts and event formats. Additionally, sharing information about community resources, such as the FindHelp platform, demonstrated a commitment to addressing community needs beyond the CHNA process itself.
Lessons Learned and Future Recommendations
Several valuable insights emerged from Dayton Children’s Hospital’s expanded CHNA process. The outreach specialist model proved highly effective for reaching diverse populations but required careful planning and flexibility. Reducing logistical barriers, such as extensive onboarding requirements and background checks, would further support inclusivity.
Community partnerships were crucial not only for data collection but for sustaining long-term relationships. Authentic engagement before, during and after the assessment builds trust and encourages ongoing collaboration, contributing to long-term health equity improvements.
The importance of multilingual accessibility was another key takeaway. Providing surveys and resources in multiple languages ensured broader representation, although additional investment in translation services remains necessary for complete inclusivity.
Additionally, community involvement must extend beyond data collection. Including community members in the development of Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIPs) ensures those most affected by structural barriers have a voice in shaping solutions. Continued collaboration with outreach specialists and local organisations will be vital for maintaining progress and driving long-term health equity.
A truly equitable CHNA goes beyond regulatory requirements, transforming into a powerful tool for community-driven change. Dayton Children’s Hospital’s 2023 CHNA exemplifies how intentional community engagement, strategic partnerships and culturally responsive tools can create a more inclusive health assessment process. By centring community voices from the beginning, health institutions can better identify disparities and implement effective, long-term solutions to improve public health outcomes.
Source: Health Affairs Forefront
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