Frequently Asked Questions

A Community Health Assessment is done every 3 to 5 years. It is one part of a data-driven process focused on improving community health. By first understanding what the top health-related issues are, public health and community partners can then take a deeper dive into learning about those top issues and creating a plan to help improve health outcomes. For the Health Department, the next step is known as a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP).

Local public health has conducted a CHA every 3-5 years since 2009 in Snohomish County.

Epidemiologists with the Health Department analyzed data on a wide variety of health indicators, including rates of illness and disease, causes of death, health risks and promotive behaviors, and social and environmental determinants of health. From October to December 2022, the project team presented data to a 15-person committee consisting of community members representing cities, schools, healthcare, nonprofits, human services, libraries, community organizations, and the Tulalip Tribes.

Epidemiologists then systematically reviewed the data and re-presented to the data committee with 40 indicators that showed need for improvement. Over the course of three voting rounds and discussion, the committee narrowed down to the top six health priorities.

The Snohomish County Community Health Assessment is part of a four-step CHA/CHIP process.

1. Assess health of the community using indicators
2. Analyze and prioritize health issues
3. Develop and implement a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP)
4. Evaluate the process and outcomes.

The cycle repeats every 3-5 years. The first two steps are accomplished in the CHA. After the CHA, the Health Department begins work on the CHIP.

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