September 16, 2024
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998
The Central Shenandoah Health District, in partnership with Sentara RMH Medical Center and Church World Service, to conduct Community Health Assessment
STAUNTON, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD), along with Sentara RMH Medical Center and Church World Service (CWS), will be conducting a Community Health Assessment (CHA) over the next two months within the counties of Rockingham, Page, Shenandoah, Augusta, and the City of Harrisonburg.
This assessment is a process that collects and analyzes data about the health status of our community. The data is then used to determine health-related strengths and weaknesses, identify health disparities, and influence health improvement programs and services within our service area.
This CHA will consist of a survey that can be completed individually on paper or on a participant’s electronic device or computer. In addition to distributing the survey at local community events, CSHD, Sentara RMH Medical Center, and CWS will be hosting community focus groups in early 2025 to supplement the data collected from the survey.
The survey is available in both English and Spanish online and can be provided in Arabic and Russian on paper to those who need it. The survey will be open through November 22, 2024.
“Through surveying people in our district, we hope to identify areas that are in need of extra support to improve the health of the community. We can use this information to enhance healthcare access and community resources. Participation from a broad range of community members is important to ensure we deliver care to those who need it most,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, health director of CSHD.
“The health needs assessment helps guide us in expanding and developing services and targeting resources where they can be most impactful for our community,” says Doug Moyer, president of Sentara RMH Medical Center. “This survey is critical in helping us work with our community partners to dismantle barriers to healthcare services and provide greater access to those resources.”
The survey can be accessed on the Central Shenandoah Health District website, or at the following link: https://redcap.link/13vtsosu