Public health seeks wider input for community health needs assessment; mobile health unit unveiled

Public health director Jen asked the board to help broaden engagement for a community health needs assessment that will inform a 2027'030 community health improvement plan. She said the survey is open through Nov. 30 and is being run in partnership with Sanford, Essentia Health, Family Planning and Clay County Public Health, and that the department will use outreach methods (QR codes, printed flyers in community locations) to reach underrepresented populations.

Jen also announced that the mobile health unit funded by a state grant and county funds is complete and on site; staff said it has already been deployed to nearby communities for WIC enrollments and outreach, and invited board members to tour the vehicle after the meeting. The board noted staffing and scheduling considerations for mobile outreach.