Population Health

What is population health? According to the American Journal of Public Health, population health is “the health outcomes of a group of individuals, including the distribution of such outcomes within the group.” Groups can be determined by geography, gender, race/ethnicity, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, or health status to name a few. Our work in population health includes data research, health and wellness promotions, trainings, and interventions aimed at improving the physical and mental wellness of our communities.

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In 2013, FDRHPO was awarded a NYSDOH Rural Health Network Development Program grant to facilitate collaboration among healthcare stakeholders and work collaboratively to enhance the healthcare delivery system through research, planning, and implementation of health improvement strategies. More than a decade later, we continue to serve the region as one of approximately 30 NYS Rural Health Network Development Programs. A collaborative of local hospitals, healthcare organizations, public health agencies, and community-based organizations — North Country Health Compass Partners — was formed to advise and guide work in this area. They provide mutual support and guidance for planning and implementation of population health initiatives, including the NYS Community Health Assessments (CHAs), NYS Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIP), local health research, health promotions, and an annual regional community health survey, which is our longest-standing collaborative initiative.