Thank you for input on JCH survey

On behalf of Jay County Hospital, I would like to thank all of the participants of our 2015 Community Engagement and Needs Assessment project.
Over the past several months, JCH conducted an online survey, focus groups and interviews seeking to find information about the health of our community and what we can do to improve the health of Jay County. I’m proud to say that over 250 community members took time from their busy schedules to share their insights into the health issues our community faces.
The data from the Indiana University Bowen Center for Research and from our community will not surprise anyone. As a community, the priority health issues are: obesity, diabetes, heart and vascular disease, cancer, smoking, substance abuse and mental health concerns. These are difficult and daunting issues. 
As a result, during its annual planning process the Jay County Hospital Board of Trustees began asking the question “How does the Jay County Hospital and Health System start addressing these problems?”
The conclusion was that no single organization can tackle such complex and often culturally based problems alone. These difficult issues are best tackled by a concerted effort by multiple organizations across our community. 
We will need a focused, collaborative, group of engaged community leaders to help determine a path towards a healthier Jay County. Working together on prevention and treatment, we can make a significant difference.
While tackling health problems such as substance abuse or diabetes can be daunting, we have to remember the answer to the question: “How does one eat an elephant? You have to take one bite at a time.” 
In the coming months, we will engage this group of community leaders to take a “deep dive” on the data. The group will begin to chart the path on our journey to a healthier Jay County.
In the year ahead, we will provide updates on the shared direction that is being created. We will also highlight the various organizations that are partnering with JCH to create a stronger, healthier county for our children and families. 
I may be relatively new to the community, but in my two years here, I have come to respect the fact that when Jay County sets its mind on something, great things are accomplished.
Once again, let me express my appreciation to the many community members who took part in our community health initiative and to the many individuals who volunteer and work within the hospital and health system.
Together, we can create a healthier Jay County.
Sincerely,
Dave Hyatt
Chief Executive Officer
Jay County Hospital