BENNINGTON, Vt. — Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) is initiating a comprehensive health assessment of the communities that it serves. 

 

Conducted every three years, the Community Health Needs Assessment process allows SVMC to understand the current health needs of its region, assess the services available to residents, and identify where and how improvements can be made. Information and opinions will be collected using a digital survey and virtual forums targeted to specific communities.

 

"SVHC uses many methods to continually collect feedback from patients," said Rory Price, the health system's coordinator of Population Health. "But this tri-annual process is special. In addition to medical needs, we also ask participants to share their vision for a healthier community. This learning helps SVHC to continue addressing priority health needs both within and outside of the hospital walls."

 

The short, anonymous survey will ascertain health and wellness information from respondents and will help to identify health-related priorities at the community-level. Those who complete the survey can opt to be included in a drawing to receive one of ten $50 gift cards.

 

The survey is available at https://wh1.snapsurveys.com/s.asp?k=161668080781. The link is published on svhealthcare.org; on the hospital's social media pages, including facebook.com/svmedicalcenter; and in the health system's weekly e-newsletter.

 

Forums have taken place for people in Manchester and Wilmington. Remaining forums are planned for Hoosick Falls on March 30, Williamstown on April 1, and Bennington on April 6. Visit svhealthcare.org/Classes-Events to register to attend a community forum.

 

 Those with questions about the Community Health Needs Assessment process or with questions to submit for discussion may contact Rory Price at rory.price@svhealthcare.org or 802-440-402