Community health assessment is a systematic and vital process for identifying collective health needs, strengths, and risks, with the aim of planning effective interventions that enhance quality of life. This assessment, which is conducted periodically (usually every 3-5 years), includes the collection and analysis of primary (interviews, questionnaires) and secondary (health records) data to diagnose the health status of the population and involve them in developing solutions. Concept and Objectives of Community Health Assessment: Community health assessment is a comprehensive tool for measuring collective well-being. It is not limited to individual diseases but extends to include the social, environmental, and economic determinants that affect health. Key Objectives: • Identifying community health priorities (e.g., chronic diseases, pollution, lack of health services). • Recognizing the community's assets and strengths to enhance its resilience. • Allocating public resources equitably and effectively. • Designing evidence-based prevention programs and interventions. Data Collection Methods and Tools: Public health professionals and nurses use a combination of methods to ensure the accuracy of the assessment: Secondary Data: Analysis of population census records, hospital data and statistics, and national reports. Primary Data: - Public forums and focus groups: To directly gather feedback from community members. - Questionnaires and interviews: With community leaders and residents. - Participant observation: Monitoring the living environment. - Geographic Information Systems (GIS): To identify health patterns and resources at the neighborhood level. Components of Health Assessment: The assessment focuses on several key aspects to create a comprehensive picture: - Health Status: Rates of illness (diabetes, heart disease) and mortality. - Health Behaviors: Smoking, diet, and physical activity. - Environmental and Social Factors: Housing, availability of healthy food, pollution, and income. - Access to Care: Availability and quality of health services. The Importance and Neglect of Health Assessment: Accurate assessments lead to improved public health and promote sustainable development. Conversely, neglecting community health assessments leads to complex problems, such as increased rates of obesity and chronic diseases, and a greater economic burden due to rising healthcare costs. Steps of Health Assessment: - Planning and Collaboration: Engaging stakeholders (hospitals, healthcare centers, other local government entities, individuals). - Data Collection: Using appropriate tools. - Data Analysis: Identifying key problems. - Prioritization and Planning: Implementing strategies to mitigate problems. This process is a "shared responsibility" that requires collaboration among individuals, the entire healthcare system, and policymakers to ensure a healthy and sustainable community. Al-Mustaqbal University the first university in Iraq.
  الهدف الثالث من اهداف التنمية المستدامة -الصحة الجيدة والرفاه