The final draft of the 2022 Seneca County Community Health Status Assessment has been released by the Seneca County Health Alliance.

The final draft of the 2022 Seneca County Community Health Status Assessment has been released by the Seneca County Health Alliance. The comprehensive picture of health and well-being of local residents is conducted every three years and identifies health needs of the community by surveying local youth and adults on more than 30 health-related topics. "This assessment helps us to identify new health concerns of Seneca County residents, measure the impact of current health improvement efforts, and guide the wise use of local resources," said Anne Goon, Seneca County health commissioner and Health Alliance chairperson. Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio conducted the assessment, which addressed health issues ranging from residents' access to health care services and quality of life to their mental health status and use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs. Roughly 350 local adults ages 19 and older voluntarily responded, and more than 1,000 local middle and high school students participated in the OHYES! assessment that is included in the report. Information gathered through this and similar assessments will be used to help identify priorities to be tackled in the 2023-2025 Community Health Improvement Plan. "The current CHIP addresses youth and adult mental health and addictions, prevention of chronic diseases like diabetes, youth bullying and trauma. These are challenges that no one agency can solve; they require many community partners and residents working together to identify and implement strategies that are proven to work," Goon said. "While data is useful, it's how we all use this information that will ultimately determine its value. By working together, we can make Seneca County a healthier place to live, work, and play," she said. To view the 2022 Seneca County Community Health Status Assessment, visit https://senecahealthdept.org/community/community-health-assessment. Local residents and partner organizations are encouraged to share their thoughts and insights about local health needs. After viewing the assessment, they are encouraged to complete a quick survey, www.surveymonkey.com/r/2022SenecaPerceptionsFeedback.