IRS regulations require all not-for-profit hospitals to complete a community health needs assessment (CHNA) and community health improvement plan (CHIP) every three years. ICH has worked with MelroseWakefield Hospital (formerly Hallmark Health System) to conduct their CHNAs since 2012. ICH compiles demographics and key health indicators for each town in MelroseWakefield’s community benefits catchment area and analyzes community and stakeholder input gathered through surveys and focus groups. After completing the CHNA, ICH facilitates the strategic planning process and prepares a CHIP to address key areas identified in the needs assessment. ICH’s comprehensive CHNA and CHIP reports have enabled MelroseWakefield to fulfill IRS requirements, and the hospital has used the data to prioritize resources and strengthen community programming and clinical services, leading to improved patient and community health.

View the CHNA and CHIP reports here.