The process of building a healthy community must include input from the grass roots community. Planning, assessment, assurance, evaluation and advocacy are important components of assessing a community’s public health needs and has a direct correlation to the core functions of public health: Assessment, Policy Development and Assurance. The Fulton County Department of Health & Wellness (FCDHW) in Atlanta Georgia is developing such a model for its 18 community health centers located throughout Fulton County. The FCDHW strategy for intervention is to bring together community collaborations and partners to raise the community’s consciousness of public health issues and advocate to close the gap in health disparities. Regional models for the Community Health Advisory Boards (CHABs) are developed to address public health need in the community. This is being accomplished by involving the community at the local level. Membership of the CHABs not only includes residents of the community, but included are the faith community, schools, local businesses, local government officials, and police and fire department representation. The CHABs membership reflects the diverse population it serves and provides advice to the FCDHW of what true needs exist in their communities. This further assists the Department in developing programs and initiatives to address both public health need and unmet need. The FCDHW recognizes its unique opportunity partner with the CDC and community partners because of its location and demographics.
Learning Objectives: 1. Develop a community health advisory board for public health. 2. Learn to build community coalition and partnerships to specifically address public health needs and unmet need.
Keywords: Community Planning, Community Collaboration
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