Community Health Needs Priorities Named

Mental health, substance misuse, healthy lifestyles, social isolation and affordable housing were identified as five key priorities in the 2022-24 Community Health Needs Assessment, which covers those communities within the Sauk Prairie, Wisconsin Heights, Lodi and River Valley school districts.

Administered by Sauk Prairie Healthcare, the assessment is conducted every three years in conjunction with service area stakeholders, county organizations, local safety services, other area hospitals and community groups, and is based on the community’s highest needs, as identified by those participating.

Key community health priorities are selected based on magnitude of those affected, severity of issue, time trends and patterns, comparisons, disparities, and community readiness.

The data is used to develop an overall community health profile and identify gaps in health services. It also helps shape Sauk Prairie Healthcare’s future programs, services, and action items by providing focus.

The document is comprised of demographic and health statistics from Sauk Prairie Healthcare’s community and identifying and prioritizing unmet health needs of area residents, as identified by community leaders and organizations.

“As your community health partner, Sauk Prairie Healthcare believes it is our responsibility to identify and understand the barriers that exist between the people in our communities and access to quality healthcare,” said Ken Carlson, Vice President of Planning and Business Development at Sauk Prairie Healthcare. “This assessment’s five priorities serve as a reminder that health needs are all-inclusive and can often highlight other social factors not typically associated with healthcare, such as stable housing, food insecurity, education, and economic stability.

For more information, please refer to Sauk Prairie Healthcare’s full Community Health Needs Assessment report here.