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PHONE NUMBER: 701-567-4561
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West River Health Services seeks input from area residents about the community's health needs

In an effort to gauge the overall health needs of our area West River Health Services will survey area residents during an approximately two-week period beginning October 1. The results of the survey will provide guidance to local health organizations on ways to improve community health and provide better services. The survey is part of a community health needs assessment initiated by the local hospital and public health unit. They are receiving assistance in conducting the assessment from the Center for Rural Health at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

The local health-related organizations strongly encourage all area residents to participate in the survey. Surveys will be distributed to area residents through various channels, including Facebook and the website. Written copies are available by calling the hospital at (701) 567-6183 or 6190. All survey responses are anonymous, and there is no way to track responses back to individuals. Survey responses are returned to the Center for Rural Health to help ensure anonymity. Residents may access an interactive, online version of the survey at https://tinyurl.com/CHNAHettinger23.

The survey will allow local health organizations to learn about community health concerns, learn of the community’s perceptions about local health care services provided, and hear suggestions to improve health in the area, learn about community assets and collaboration, and determine preferences for using local health care versus traveling to other facilities. In addition to specific questions, the survey also seeks general, open-ended input from residents about the community’s health needs and the delivery of local health care. Completing the survey takes about 20 to 25 minutes.   

Community needs assessment is a requirement of the Affordable Care Act. The regulations require non-profit hospitals such as West River Health Services to assess the community’s health needs every three years. A health assessment is also part of accreditation requirements for local public health units.