A framework and methodology for understanding impact of community health assessments

In New York State, local health departments and hospitals are required by public health law to conduct periodic community health assessments. Community assessment practitioners review secondary data, collect primary data, gather feedback from communities, identify gaps, strengths and needs, develop and implement strategic plans toward improving health outcomes. How do assessment practitioners evaluate the impact of their assessment processes and strategic plans? Using the logic model as a framework, the presenter identifies research questions, and a methodology for understanding the impact of community health assessments. Factors for evaluating the impact of community health assessment based on review of literature review are discussed and illustrated using examples from the field.