The Westchester County Department of Health (WCDOH) is conducting a comprehensive survey of County residents to identify and address health concerns and create more positive outcomes.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “It is so important to the health and well-being of Westchester County residents that we do this health needs assessment every few years in order to stay on top of the most pressing health issues. I commend the dedication and efforts of the Westchester County Department of Health, led by Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler, in collaboration with the Greater New York Hospital Association to get the job done collecting the findings and establishing the most effective path forward for a healthier Westchester County.”
The New York State Department of Health requires health departments and hospitals state-wide to conduct a community health assessment (CHA) every three years. The results of the CHA are utilized for a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP); a roadmap for improving physical and behavioral health for County residents.
Amler said: “To improve the health of our communities, we must first understand the challenges our residents face in their daily lives—whether that’s access to healthy food, stable housing, or quality healthcare. This survey gives us the insight we need to identify where the gaps are, so we can design meaningful programs that support better outcomes for everyone in Westchester. It’s not just about identifying problems—it’s about finding solutions that create lasting change.”
Westchester County Department of Health First Deputy Commissioner Renee Recchia said: “The Health Department values the voices of all its County residents. We will be attending community events and working with our community partners to spread the word about the survey and to encourage people to take a few minutes to provide their feedback.”
This year’s CHA places a particular emphasis on understanding how social determinants impact the health of the County’s population. The Community Health Assessment is open to anyone 18 years and older. The WCDOH reviews weekly reports of the demographics (zip code, age distribution, gender and race/ethnicity) of those who complete the survey to ensure the widest possible range of residents are participating. Close to 1,200 surveys were collected in 2022 and the goal is to surpass that number and collect more information. To facilitate this process, Westchester County has joined forces with local hospitals and partnered with the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA) to help conduct the surveys in English, Spanish and other languages with an online survey tool, as well as distribute hard copies of surveys in English and Spanish.
To access the survey, click here. The Community Health Assessment collection will run through July 31, 2025.