Community Health Assessment aNd Group Evaluation (CHANGE) Waupaca County 2013

Abstract

Participant/setting: Waupaca County, a rural county of approximately 50,000 residents in central Wisconsin. Background: The state of Wisconsin mandates countywide assessment of residents’ health every five years. Objective Summary: Health assessments identify community needs and assets as they are related to community policy and environment. The Community Action Plan (CAP) is developed from health assessment results and related evidence based resources that communities can implement to create policies and change environments that support resident's healthy lifestyles. Design: This project reports on the methodology applied to date by Waupaca County in conducting their 2013 Community Health Needs Assessment and developing their Community Action Plan for health improvements utilizing the CDC Community Health Assessment and Group Evaluation (CHANGE) Tool. Methods/Statistical Analysis: From quantifying specific sector policy questions, more definitive needs were identified which provided a sound basis for priority policy recommendations and best practice resources. Results: This Action Plan for Waupaca County communities will include goals and objectives for each community to guide and engage NuAct partners and community leaders to support policy decisions and environmental actions necessary to positively achieve county health outcomes. Conclusion: As a community health professional, it was more definitive to connect specific recommendations to needs that were identified through related policy questions within the assessment tool.