As local businesses continue to navigate workforce shortages, shifting economic pressures and changing community needs, one thing is increasingly clear: a thriving economy depends on a healthy community.

That’s why the Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) is calling on business leaders across the region to support the 2025 Community Health Survey, now open through June 30. This confidential, anonymous survey is a key part of a yearlong Community Health Assessment process to identify top health priorities in Benton and Franklin counties and guide strategic improvement planning in areas like behavioral health, housing, transportation and food access.

While often viewed as a public health tool, this year’s survey is also a call to action for the business community. Communities with access to quality health care, affordable housing and strong support services tend to have higher workforce participation, lower absenteeism and greater business retention.

“When public health, health care and employers work together to understand the barriers people face, we build stronger foundations for long-term economic success and vitality,” said Pernell Hodges, performance management manager and data epidemiologist at BFHD. “That’s why it’s critical we hear from business owners, industry leaders and employees in the workforce. They see the impact of these challenges firsthand.”

Though public health’s Community Health Assessment process aligns with the federally-required Community Health Needs Assessment that hospitals complete every three years, its purpose extends far beyond compliance. It’s a structured opportunity for the region to reflect on progress, identify gaps and chart a shared path forward. From missed work due to chronic illness to recruitment challenges tied to child care or mental health access, health and business are deeply intertwined. Solutions must be, too.

As part of this work, the health district, in partnership with Kadlec, has convened a core group of partners, including the major hospital systems, Greater Health Now and Kennewick Public Hospital District. In addition, a steering committee made up of roughly 18 organizations, from community health providers to environmental health agencies, guides the broader assessment efforts.

The Community Health Assessment includes three components:

• Community Partner Assessment: A look at our region’s capacity to support community health.
• Community Status Assessment: A deep dive into quantitative data like disease prevalence, demographics and economic trends.
• Community Context Assessment: Qualitative insights gathered directly from community members to understand lived experiences and local context. This data is gathered through this community survey, key informant interviews and focus groups.

Rather than a one-time report or a drop in the bucket, the assessment process supports sustained momentum and meaningful change.

Data collected from the survey will directly inform the Community Health Improvement Plan, a strategic road map that guides how public health and its partners will focus on improving health in key areas that need additional attention and support in our community. 

“Survey results help us identify priorities so we can advocate for the right resources and build programs where they’ll have the most impact,” Hodges said. “It’s not just about statistics – it’s about stories, trends and real community experiences.”

The anonymous 2025 Community Health Survey asks participants about their overall physical and mental health, as well as access to essentials like health care, housing, transportation and food with optional demographic questions to help identify disparities between groups.

Just as employers invest in wellness and development, this is a chance for the broader community to invest in systems that support long-term growth and a healthier, more resilient region.

To take the survey, go to bit.ly/BFHD2025survey.

Amanda Moe is the communications and public affairs manager at Benton-Franklin Health District in Kennewick.