Local Input Sought for State Health Assessment
Written by broebling on October 12, 2017
Press Release – The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) is inviting local residents to offer their thoughts, ideas and perspectives on the state’s health needs and priorities during upcoming events in Casper on October 16, Sheridan on October 23 and Gillette on October 24.
The department is working to complete a comprehensive state health assessment. “We’re gathering data and information from a variety of sources to better understand Wyoming’s health needs,” said Stephanie Pyle, Public Health Division acting senior administrator with WDH. “Understanding that information will help shape future priorities to best serve our state.”
“The voices of our residents and communities are important to developing a well-rounded assessment,” Pyle said. “We know residents experience and view health in a number of ways. Sharing those experiences helps us recognize the health-related challenges, resources and priorities that exist in Wyoming.”
The October 16 Casper event will be held at the Crescent Moon Coffee Shop, located at 114 W. 2nd Street. The October 23 Sheridan event is set for the Studio Cafe, located at 171 N. Main Street. The October 24 Gillette event will be in the Canyon Room of the Gillette Recreation Center, located at 250 Shoshone Avenue. In each location, interested residents may attend either an informal open house from 2-6 p.m. or a more structured listening session from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Participants can enjoy free coffee during the sessions.
The Wyoming Business Council is facilitating each event, and similar sessions are planned for more Wyoming communities. An online survey is available in both English and Spanish. Please visit sha.wyo.gov/engagement to find the survey and more information about the state health assessment.
Pyle suggests groups who may be especially interested in providing input for the assessment project include:
- Those who experience health challenges
- Those who have ideas for solutions to health challenges
- Local elected and appointed officials
- Community service agencies
- Healthcare providers
- Community coalitions
- Business owners
- Economic development groups
- School officials
- Anyone with interest in the health and well-being of our communities
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