Jacksonville Memorial Hospital and the health departments in Cass, Morgan and Scott counties are encouraging residents to participate in its Community Health Survey, an important step in identifying and addressing the health needs of the communities it serves.

As a nonprofit health system, Memorial Health conducts a Community Health Survey to better understand local health challenges, priorities and quality-of-life concerns. Feedback collected through the survey helps identify community needs and guides the development of Memorial Health's Community Health Implementation Plan (CHIP), ensuring resources, programs and services are focused on the areas that matter most.

Previous survey results led to concrete results including additional programming, targeted initiatives and community events that support the health of our hospital communities. In Jacksonville, survey results led to the annual Summer Fun and Wellness Fest event, which provides resources, food and support to local families during the months when school is not in session.

The survey is available to residents of Cass, Morgan and Scott counties. Community members can participate by completing the survey online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRM8SYN.

"Community input is essential to understanding the health issues that affect our region," said Angela Stoltzenburg, director of Community Health. "The feedback we receive helps us make informed decisions and develop programs that improve access to care, address community priorities and support better health outcomes for everyone."

By taking just a few minutes to complete the survey, residents can help shape future health initiatives, improve access to care and support Memorial Health's mission to improve lives and build stronger communities through better health.

The survey will remain open through Oct. 31.