Community led programs, services enhancing overall health
(Horizon) October 13, 2016 - Saint John and Grand Lake area community members now offer innovative programs and services to support the health and wellbeing of seniors, health care workers, youth and priority populations. These two communities are acting on recommendations out of their respective Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNAs).
"Improving the health of our population is about more than budgets and buildings - it's about working together with our communities to address the many factors that impact our heath," said John McGarry, President and CEO of Horizon Health Network. "What we are witnessing is a community-based effort to address the unique health needs of the people in those areas."
In the Grand Lake area, a
team of health care workers are supporting their peers with monthly
information sessions including self-care and nutrition; students
are learning how to cope with pressures that may otherwise lead to
addiction and mental health issues.
Seniors in some Saint John
communities are benefiting from a free, seniors-led health
promotion program focused on rehabilitation and physical activity;
other residents are using the North End Wellness Centre (NEW-C) as
a way to connect with various services, including education,
employment, and housing.
"Our community leaders have put considerable effort into this process and we are proud of the contributions they are making to improve community-based care," said Jean Daigle, VP Community with Horizon Health Network. "This process is in various stages of development in other communities and we look forward to sharing their progress."
Since 2012, Horizon has been
partnering with communities to complete CHNAs. A CHNA is a dynamic
and ongoing process that identifies the unique strengths and needs
of a community. This information provides both Horizon and the
communities with a roadmap to achieving a common goal: to improve
the overall health of New Brunswick communities.
To date, five of the 13 communities with completed CHNA reports have been highlighted in the first two issues of In Your Community:Community Health Needs Assessments in Action. To download a copy or to view the completed CHNA reports, visit www.HorizonNB.ca .
- 30 -
For more information contact:
Stephanie Neilson-Levesque
Media Relations
1-877-499-1899