Page 26 - Scene Magazine September 2023 48-09

For Your Health
BY ERIKA L
ARSEN, Health Educator
We Have a Plan: Calhoun County’s First Community Health Improvement Plan
a healthier and more equitable county, the development and implementation of a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) is a powerful strategy that places the collective health of residents at the forefront.
Out of the eight prioritized health needs in the CHNA, the CHIP focus- es on four health topics: Behavioral Health; Maternal, Fetal, Infant Health; Access to Health Care; and Health Equity.
A CHIP is not just a document;
it’s a roadmap to better health. It’s
an in-depth effort where local health departments, community organizations, healthcare providers, and residents come together to address the unique health challenges that affect our daily lives. It serves as a compass guiding us toward a future where our community
is healthier, more resilient, and more vibrant.
Implementing a CHIP involves translating the strategies and objectives outlined in the plan into actionable steps that lead to positive health outcomes for the community. Our steering committee discussed each strategic issue in-depth and identified goals, strategies, and an action plan related to the issues. With an action plan determined, we must break down each priority activity into spe- cific action steps with clear timelines, responsible parties, and measurable indicators of success.
In our ever- evolving world, the health and well-being of our community stands as a priority for growth and prog- ress. To achieve
real and impactful change. The CHNA had already prioritized the areas where our collective efforts can bring about meaningful change, all we had to do was put together a plan to address those needs.
A CHIP is not a mere list of goals
– it’s a comprehensive strategy that reflects the pulse of our communi-
ty’s health needs. Following the 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), Calhoun County Public Health Department and Summit Pointe (CHIP Co-chairs) desired to implement
26 SCENE 4809 I HEALTH ISSUE
The CHIP is a living document and will evolve as the needs of the commu- nity change. The CHIP was created with sustainability in mind. The initiatives within the plan are not fleeting; they’re designed to stand the test of time. By rooting these initiatives into the fabric of our community, we can ensure that the positive changes we bring forth today continue to bear fruit for genera- tions to come.
As residents, we are the heartbeat of our community. Our support, engage- ment, and active participation are cru- cial for the success of a CHIP. By being informed about the plan, participating in community forums, and advocating for its initiatives, we become champions of our own health and the well-being of those around us.
In the journey to a healthier commu- nity, the 2023 Community Health Im- provement Plan is our compass, guiding us toward a future where wellness is within reach for all. It’s a testament to our collective commitment to fostering positive change and ensuring that the health of our community remains a priority.