The development of the CHNA was collective effort through a collaboration of six partner organizations (Bronson Health, Calhoun County Public Health Department, CareWell Services – Area Agency on Aging, The Coordinating Council, Oaklawn, and Population Health Alliance) and an external consulting firm (Conduent HCI) which formed the CHNA Advisory Committee. This committee met for months to guide the process, discuss best practices, monitor the survey dashboard, identify gaps in representation, implement marketing strategies, and identify trusted organizational leaders to assist with survey distribution across the county. The committee members also reviewed the data to illuminate major health concerns by age, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status and gender identity. The CHNA efforts focused on specific communities including Albion, Battle Creek, Marshall, Homer, Springfield, Tekonsha, and Athens. The team reviewed both qualitative and quantitative data which were synthesized to reveal the highest priority needs. The team then conducted multiple public prioritization sessions to ensure inclusivity and increase participation across the county on understanding the community health needs. The Calhoun County CHNA would not have been possible without the support and guidance of those individuals that were able to share their expertise and insight in the planning, development, and implementation of this assessment.
We are indebted to our community partners who shared their stories and expertise; these individuals truly embody our vision for improving health through partnerships with the community.