(Horizon) October 31, 2017 - The communities of Miramichi and Neguac, in partnership with Horizon Health Network, are proving their commitment to providing better preventative, primary, and long-term health care to their residents through community-based initiatives - addressing healthy eating and physical activity, food insecurity, and community support for seniors. These are among the key priority areas identified in their respective Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNA).

"Respecting the unique needs of our communities allows us to effectively address their health care priorities and improve access to services," said Karen McGrath, President and CEO of Horizon Health Network. "Collaborating with communities is the best way Horizon can help ensure every New Brunswicker has access to the services they need to be as healthy as they can be."

In Your Community: Community Health Needs Assessments in Action ( link) is a publication acknowledging achievements stemming from the report's recommendations. This latest issue is the publication's third installment, with previous issues highlighting the Fredericton and Oromocto areas (link ), and the Saint John and Grand Lake areas ( link). Future issues will highlight the work from other communities.

Among the work featured is a program aimed at improving the rates of childhood obesity through healthy eating and fitness education; a network devoted to linking seniors to inclusive community programs; and a community garden that provides access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

"The work highlighted is just a snapshot of the considerable effort that has gone into this initiative by the communities," said Jean Daigle, VP Community with Horizon Health Network. "The remarkable work being done by our community leaders to improve local health care is the foundation of primary care, and we're proud to work with them to advance the overall health of our province."

This third issue also celebrates the recipients of the Community Health Recognition Awards, who were honoured last spring for making a difference to improve overall health in their community. Winners received an award certificate and $500 towards their organization.

Since 2012, Horizon has been partnering with communities to complete CHNAs. A CHNA is a dynamic and ongoing process that identifies the unique strengths and needs of a community. This information provides both Horizon and the communities with a roadmap to achieving a common goal: to improve the overall health of New Brunswick communities. All 17 CHNAs identified have been completed.  

To download a copy of In Your Community or to view the completed Community Health Needs Assessment reports, visit www.HorizonNB.ca .

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For more information contact:

Stephanie Neilson-Levesque                                                             

Media Relations                                                                                 

1-877-499-1899                                                                                             

Media@HorizonNB.ca    
www.HorizonNB.ca