SVMC Community Health Needs Assessment 2021 - Catalog - Page 6
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community organizations that provide world-class mental health supports, most notably United
Counseling Service (UCS), the Bennington-area designated mental health agency. Through continued
collaboration with UCS and innovations in the community and clinical setting, SVMC is well situated to
amplify efforts to address mental health needs. For more data regarding this health need, visit page 47;
for information outlining SVMC’s implementation strategies, visit page 75.
2. Promotion of Healthy Behaviors and Primary Prevention Activities
Much of an individual’s health is determined by their behaviors, habits, and choices. Over time,
behaviors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, and poor diet can negatively affect one’s wellbeing,
resulting in chronic conditions and early mortality. Within SVMC’s service area, individuals shared
significant challenges to consistently perform healthy behaviors and develop healthy habits. SVMC’s
community health survey asked respondents to share the one change to their life that would most
positively impact their personal health; overwhelmingly, responses indicated that increasing physical
activity is a goal for many.
SVMC understands that making healthy behavior choices is not always easy or even possible, given
environmental, financial, and other constraints. Influencing behavior cannot simply be accomplished
through education and didactic lecturing from subject matter experts. Instead, change at the individual
level can be seen after removing community-level barriers to good health, particularly when paired with
tailored support.
Continued partnership with community-based organizations will be integral to the success of initiatives
in this domain. A particular focus will be placed upon youth, to build resilience and healthy habits early
in life. For more data regarding this health need, visit page 52. For information outlining SVMC’s
implementation strategies, visit page 76.
3. Accessibility of High-Quality, Convenient, and Affordable Care
Provision of exceptional care and comfort is intrinsic to SVMC’s commitment and service to the
community. Ensuring access to quality care for all people is at the heart of the hospital’s mission,
strategic plan, and population health efforts. Though much of an individual’s health outcomes are
determined outside of the clinical setting, connection to the health system is paramount to maintaining
good health, detecting early signs of illness, and connecting individuals to appropriate resources and
supports. A number of barriers to care were identified through SVMC’s community forums and
community health survey. Community members cited challenges to secure a fast, convenient
appointment as a top concern. Additionally, a wide range of individuals indicated that challenges and
anxieties relating to the cost of health care were frequently an obstacle toward seeking and receiving
care.
Sustained recruitment and education efforts will continue at SVMC to ensure a diverse pool of
providers, ready to assist patients in living their healthiest lives and meeting their goals for wellbeing.
Modification of practice hours as appropriate, and expansion of on-demand telehealth services, will
provide a convenient care landscape for even the busiest patients.
Connection with minority and marginalized groups is essential to build trust and communication with
the health system. Cancer screening days, communication campaigns, and continued support of other
clinical organizations will increase access to care and build a healthier populace. For more data
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center
Community Health Needs Assessment 2021