In the first quarter of 2024, SoHum Health embarked on an extensive Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) to better understand and address the health needs of its residents. This multi-month endeavor, facilitated by Southern Humboldt Community Healthcare District (SHCHD) Outreach Department staff and the Growth Management Center of Townsend, Montana, aimed to gather comprehensive data and insights to inform an effective implementation strategy.

Assessment Overview

The CHNA process was thorough and inclusive, involving the collection and analysis of both primary and secondary data. Input from community members and healthcare professionals was gathered through surveys and interviews. This collaborative approach ensured a well-rounded understanding of the community’s health landscape.

Community Strengths and Challenges

The assessment highlighted several community strengths, including access to essential healthcare services and the region’s beautiful natural environment, which provides numerous wellness and recreational opportunities. While the community has a solid foundation, the assessment also identified a few areas for improvement. These include expanding mental health services, constructing a new healthcare facility, increasing affordable housing options, and enhancing coordination between local healthcare providers and specialists.

Priority Health Needs

Based on the assessment findings, SoHum Health has prioritized five main community health needs:

1. Primary Care and Mental Health: The construction of a new, modern hospital and clinic facility is crucial for SHCHD to continue providing high-quality care and expand services like mobile MRI and specialist care, while also boosting the local economy.
2. Access to Specialists: Access to timely specialist referrals is a significant barrier, with the community needing various specialties like pediatrics, cardiology, and mental health. Enhancements like the new hospital facility and electronic records system EPIC will help, but there is also a need for patient navigators to assist with specialist access and care coordination.
3. Workforce Development and Provider Recruitment: Developing partnerships with local educational institutions can help create a pipeline for future healthcare professionals. Initiatives include providing career path exposure for students, hosting medical interns, and developing housing facilities to attract and retain skilled staff.
4. Proximity: Transportation for healthcare appointments is a major issue, particularly for seniors. Expanding telehealth, mobile clinic services, and transportation assistance within Southern Humboldt can help mitigate this challenge, though assistance for travel to specialists outside the area remains limited.
5. Basic Needs for Seniors and Working Families: As poverty levels rise and the population ages, there is a growing need for services that help seniors age in place, including food assistance and patient navigation for medical appointments. Strengthening partnerships with local non-profits will enhance support for seniors and working families.

Moving Forward: A Community Effort

SoHum Health is committed to addressing these priorities through strategic initiatives and partnerships. The district is focused on building new healthcare facilities, enhancing service coordination, and implementing programs to recruit and retain healthcare providers. Additionally, efforts will be made to address social determinants of health, such as housing and economic stability, to create a supportive environment for all community members.

To explore the detailed findings and strategic plans in-depth, click here to read the full report. By staying informed and involved, we can collectively work towards a healthier, more resilient community.

Chelsea Brown, submitted on behalf of the SoHum Health’s Outreach department.