Assessments

Buffalo County Assessments

In 2000-2001, the Partners conducted a countywide re-assessment to determine which priority health goals have been attained and to determine if new emerging priority health areas needed attention. In 2000 and 2001 the Partners conducted Behavioral Risk Factor Surveys for adults, minority and youth in Buffalo County. (Each survey is available at bottom of page to download.) They also reviewed Buffalo County outcome indicator information related to morbidity and mortality from the Nebraska Health and Human Services System (Latest data available was 1997.) To secure the qualitative data the Partners conducted a focus group process called Mini-Town Hall Meetings in eight of the eleven Buffalo County communities networking with 500 residents including youth and minorities.

What the Partners heard community members share with other community members in the Mini-Town Hall meetings were concerns that closely reflected the other data gathered in the behavioral risk factor surveys and outcome indicator review. All eight Buffalo County communities determined that "Stress on the Family Unit" is a top priority health issue for their families and communities. Other areas that the communities stated are top concerns were issues around youth, elderly and economic growth in rural communities.

In reviewing the countywide re-assessment data, the Buffalo County Community Partners identified 125 community issue areas. In order for Buffalo County residents to make a true impact in the overall health status, the Partners needed to focus on priority areas. 10 priority health goals were identified and adopted by the community in the spring of 2001. The Partners understand that there are other prime issue areas that were not defined as priority areas. By researching inter-related issues, they are proposing that the community work together to strive to impact these 10 priority health goals to make a greater impact on the health of our residents. There are also indicators identified in this report that will be monitored, since they also can impact the overall health of Buffalo County residents. The Partners have organized the re-assessment data in the form of goals and indicators to assist the community in working together around like issues to make a positive impact on creating a healthier community over the next 10 years.

Download any of the following surveys or reports to assist you in your health community building efforts. If you have any questions, please contact the Partner office.