The Cabell-Huntington Health Department in Huntington, West Virginia, recently approved a new initiative called the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). This plan was developed in collaboration with various community stakeholders and partners to address strategies for improving the overall health of the community. According to Chief Executive Officer Dr. Michael Kilkenny, the plan outlines goals for better health outcomes in the community over the next five years.
Through extensive research, the health department identified four major objectives to focus on during the implementation of the plan. These objectives include building community resilience around substance abuse and mental health, promoting equitable life expectancy, and creating a healthy built environment. Researchers have outlined specific actions needed to improve these areas and have identified existing resources that can be utilized to achieve these goals.
The plan also includes regular interval evaluations to assess progress and determine if adjustments are needed. Dr. Kilkenny emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring and collaboration with partners to ensure that the strategies outlined in the plan are effective and responsive to any changes in the community. The full Community Health Improvement Plan is available for review on the health department’s website.
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