Collaborating with NNIISH, ARCH (A Regional Collaboration for Health), and Public Health colleagues, a comprehensive Health Needs Assessment (HNA) was developed for the regions of Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea, and Neath Port Talbot.
The aim of the assessment was to provide clarity on the current state of health and wellbeing amongst the specific population of Hywel Dda University Health Board and Swansea Bay University Health Board (SBUHB). This initiative aimed to provide a foundation for evidence-based decision-making regarding research and innovation in health and wellbeing across the region, with a focus on enhancing patient experiences and outcomes.
Findings from the HNA have enabled deeper insights into the population groups across the region and identified key health and wellbeing needs. The recommendations produced in the report are actively informing service planning within healthcare settings across the region, including Swansea University’s Health and Wellbeing Academy. Furthermore, they are contributing to the implementation of the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act, and helping healthcare professionals in tailoring services to meet the specific needs of the community.
The Health Needs Assessment will also support the development of a Carmarthenshire Prevention Strategy by Hywel Dda University Health Board, offering crucial insights into prevalent challenges and priority areas for preventive interventions.
Moving forward, the HNA will play a pivotal role in guiding planning efforts at NNIISH to ensure that developments and services have the greatest possible impact in mitigating health disparities across the ARCH region.
“The aim of the Health Needs Assessment is to provide clarity on the current state of health and wellbeing amongst the regional population. These recommendations will guide Campuses’ developments and services to ensure they have the greatest impact in addressing health inequalities locally.” – Dr Michael Thomas
The HNA findings are expected to significantly enhance patient and client outcomes through the development of targeted services for NNIISH. By addressing key areas identified in the assessment such as respiratory issues, smoking, obesity, and musculoskeletal conditions, these services stand to offer substantial benefits to the regional population.
In summary, the Health Needs Assessment serves as a powerful tool for informed decision-making, facilitating the prioritisation of services to enhance the health and wellbeing of the local community. It will enable data comparisons between health boards and national averages, identifying local risk factors, and offering strategic guidance for addressing current population needs. Moreover, its integration into various strategies and documents is driving tangible service changes and improvements, ensuring that healthcare services remain adaptive and impactful in the face of future challenges.