HUNTSVILLE, Alabama – The Huntsville Hospital Health System is reaching out to families, seniors and all North Alabama residents to hear directly about the health concerns that affect their daily lives. A Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) survey, now open through November 13, asks participants to identify local health priorities, barriers to care and the resources they need to stay healthy.
Why the survey matters to the community
Serving a 15‑county footprint that stretches from Madison County to Morgan County, Huntsville Hospital sees itself as a steward of the region’s well‑being. “With the footprint we have across North Alabama, we have a responsibility to ask people what barriers do they see, what are the healthcare challenges in our community, and how can we help address those?” said Jeff Samz, CEO of Huntsville Hospital Health System. “We think the best way for us to figure out how to invest our resources and solve the community’s health problems is to listen to our customers.”
The survey is designed to capture a broad picture of health needs, from chronic disease management and mental‑health services to access to primary care and transportation challenges. It also includes a focus on underserved populations, ensuring that the voices of those who often face the greatest obstacles are heard.
How to participate
Anyone living in the covered counties can take the survey, regardless of whether they have previously received care at a Huntsville Hospital facility. The questionnaire is available online, and respondents can complete it at their convenience. A link to the survey is provided on the hospital’s website, and community partners are encouraged to share the link with their networks.
What the hospital hopes to achieve
Results from the CHNA will inform future investments in programs such as mobile health clinics, expanded tele‑medicine options, preventive‑care initiatives and workforce development for local health professionals. Hospital leaders say the data will help prioritize funding for projects that directly address the most pressing gaps identified by residents.
“Our goal is to align our resources with the real‑world needs of North Alabamians,” Samz added. “When we understand the specific challenges families face—whether it’s a lack of nearby specialty care, difficulty affording medication or limited health‑education opportunities—we can tailor our services to make a tangible difference.”
Community response
Local civic groups, faith‑based organizations and business associations have expressed support for the initiative, noting that a data‑driven approach can strengthen partnerships and improve overall community health outcomes. “When a major health system asks for our input, it shows a commitment to partnership rather than top‑down decision‑making,” said a representative from a regional chamber of commerce.
Residents are encouraged to take a few minutes to complete the survey and help shape the future of health care in their neighborhoods. The hospital plans to publish a summary of the findings later this year, along with a roadmap for upcoming projects based on the community’s feedback.
Take the survey
To share your perspective, visit the Huntsville Hospital Health System website and click the CHNA survey link. The survey will remain open until November 13.
Original reporting: WAFF 48 Huntsville (news) — read the source article.
