County Public Health Releases Community Health Improvement Plan

From Santa Cruz County Health: The Santa Cruz County, Health Services Agency, Public Health Division is pleased to announce the release of the Santa Cruz County 2018-2023 Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). The plan is a comprehensive set of policy and program recommendations for our community and identifies areas where we can improve the health and quality of life for all Santa Cruz County residents.

The plan is available for viewing at http://www.santacruzhealth.org/CHIP .

The CHIP was developed based on the results of the 2017 Santa Cruz County Community Health Assessment. Over the past year and a half, the Public Health Division has partnered with almost 140 representatives from an array of public agencies, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and numerous residents to gain insight on issues impacting county residents’ health and well-being. The assessment included a number of public meetings and focus groups to gather input directly from residents.

The aim of this plan is to help families with young children access preventive services and increase their economic stability. This will be accomplished by focusing on four strategic areas, 1.) Access to Preventive Care, 2.) Access to Mental and Behavioral Health Services, 3.) Access to Quality Early Childhood Care and Education, and 4.) Access to Dental Care. Each area has specific goals and objectives to measure progress over the next five years. The plan establishes a framework for community organizations, employers, municipalities, schools, residents and others to work together towards improving the health of our communities. “We want to harness existing efforts and align the work of multiple organizations to provide infants and children the best possible start for happy, healthy, and productive lives,” said Jessica Randolph, Public Health Manager.

The completion of the Community Health Assessment, the Community Health Improvement Plan, and the Strategic Plan brings the Public Health Division closer to applying for National Public Health Accreditation.

Santa Cruz County and its partners believe that it takes a collective effort from many to achieve the ambitious goals set forth in this plan. Please join us in working towards our Vision of “From the Redwoods through the Valleys to the Sea: Embracing Communities, Enhancing Wellbeing.”

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