In an effort to better understand how the environment in which people live, work, play and age shapes overall health, and as part of the organization’s unwavering commitment to the patients and communities they serve, Southcoast Health has launched an online community health survey to run during the month of August.

The short survey, which does not collect any personal information, examines challenges in the South Coast community associated with housing, food security, substance abuse, mental health, transportation and more. The information gathered will be analyzed by the UMass Dartmouth Center for Public Policy, one of the many community collaborations through which Southcoast ensures world-class healthcare for local residents, and will become part of the 2019 Southcoast Health Community Needs Assessment.

“Our community members are the leading experts on the day to day of life in the South Coast region.” said Rachel Davis, Director of the Southcoast Health Community Benefits Program. “That’s why it is so important for everyone to participate in this survey and have their voice heard. Southcoast Health is about much more than healthcare – it’s about community care, and the results of the survey will help us to identify solutions to these challenges for residents and for the region.”

The Southcoast Health Needs Assessment is used widely across the community to plan programs and services that meet the region’s most pressing needs while identifying their root causes. To support these efforts, Southcoast proudly collaborates with local health providers, human services agencies, advocacy groups and others that are also dedicated to progress in the community.

“There is increasing evidence that the health of neighborhoods and communities is strongly related to personal health and wellbeing,” said Davis. “We want the broadest possible representation so together we can make the best possible decisions for future investment in our community.”

To participate in Southcoast’s 2019 Community Health Survey, please visit www.southcoast.org/southcoastcares.