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Community health assessment survey under way, aims to ID biggest issues facing region

Crystal Graham
community health assessment child learning about farming
(© Stella – stock.adobe.com)

Augusta Health is conducting a community health assessment to identify the greatest needs of residents in the areas it serves.

The assessment is done every three years and is required by federal regulations.

The last 250-page report in 2022 found 14 areas of opportunity.

From the 14 opportunities, Augusta Health narrowed its focus to three key areas: mental health and substance abuse, access to healthcare services and nutrition and physical activity.

The Fishersville-based hospital has launched multiple initiatives to address the health of the community in response to the surveys including:

  • Allegheny Mountain Institute farm on the hospital campus
  • Food box and food pantry to address food insecurity
  • Food Farmacy program that offers nutrition education
  • Preventative health care services to unhoused community members
  • Get Fresh and Walk-to-School Week to promote physical activity
  • A maternal health navigator program
  • Annual cancer and heart screenings at a health fair

“We appreciate the community’s participation in this initiative,” said Krystal D. Moyers, M.Ed., CHES, administrative director, Augusta Health community partnerships and communications. “Together, we can tackle our residents’ critical health needs and improve their quality of life. We will use this assessment to guide our efforts in serving Augusta Health’s diverse population.”

2025 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) online survey


Community members are asked to share their feedback through March 24 in an online survey. Spanish language options are available.

Augusta Health has partnered with PRC Custom Research to also conduct a phone survey. Calls will come from (540) 255-0040 and appear as “AUGUSTAHLTH PRC” on caller ID.

Since 2009, Augusta Health has partnered with various organizations for a comprehensive CHNA, evaluating community health and guiding targeted initiatives to improve health outcomes in the region.

For any inquiries or comments about Augusta Health’s CHNA, contact the community partnership department at (540) 932-4976.


For related coverage, search mental health, homelessness or food insecurity on Augusta Free Press.

Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is the regional editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of Virginia Tonight, a nightly TV news show on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television.