Module 3: Methods of Conducting a CHNA

Methods of Conducting a CHNA

Developed by the Catholic Health Association of the United States (CHAUSA), this comprehensive guideline lays out a step-by-step process for assessing community health needs and developing appropriate implementation strategies. The guideline is intended to help non-profit hospitals continually improve the effectiveness of their community benefit programs and address legal requirements put forth by the ACA. It also provides practical ways of working with community members and public health experts in both assessment and planning.
See Comprehensive Guideline

Data Collection Methods

The Minnesota Department of Health provides an overview and how-to on the major types of data collection methods used in CHNA. See the Minnesota Department of Health overview on collection methods

Best Practices for Community Health Needs Assessment & Implementation Strategy Development: A Review of Scientific Methods, Current Practices and Future Potential This 2012 report summarizes the results of an expert panel

sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The report provides insights into the science, methods, and current practices in the community health improvement process.
See Report (PDF format)

Principles to Consider for the Implementation of a CHNA Process

From the Georgetown University School of Public Health & Health Services, this guideline provides methods of conducting an evidence-based needs assessment using a collaborative and community-wide approach. See guideline from Georgetown University (PDF format)

Conducting Community Health Needs Assessments: An Eight-Step Process

This process guideline discusses how to convene a broad-based community group, identify and prioritize health needs of the community, provide qualitative input, and make recommendations. The eight-step process was developed by the Center for Rural Health at the University of North Dakota and based on the model of the National Center for Rural Health Works. See the eight-step process (PDF format)