Applying an Evaluation Framework of Hospital CHA/CHIP Quality and Heterogeneity to Accredited Local Health Departments in Kentucky, 2015-2022.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the quality of community health assessments (CHA) and community health improvement plans conducted by Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB)-accredited local health departments (LHDs) in Kentucky.

DESIGN

Quality assessment of CHAs and community health improvement plan documents using criteria adapted from Pennel et al (2015).

SETTING

PHAB-accredited LHDs in Kentucky.

PARTICIPANTS

Seventeen CHAs and community health improvement plan documents from PHAB-accredited LHD.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Quality scores based on 17 evaluation criteria, including stakeholder involvement, data examination, plan feasibility, and LHD-hospital collaboration.

RESULTS

The study found significant variation in the quality of CHAs and community health improvement plan documents. The highest scores were for partner involvement, data examination, and plan feasibility. The lowest scores were for LHD-hospital collaboration, use of evidence-based strategies, and plan evaluation. No community variables significantly predicted overall report scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The quality of CHAs and community health improvement plan documents varies among Kentucky LHDs, highlighting the need for more robust guidance and standardized criteria. Strengthening hospital-LHD collaboration and focusing on evidence-based strategies can improve public health outcomes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR POLICY AND PRACTICE

Enhancing CHAs and community health improvement plan processes through legislative changes, better guidance, and improved collaboration between hospitals and LHDs can lead to more effective public health interventions and outcomes.