METHODS AND METHODOLOGY All of Eastern Health’s community health needs assessments have involved gathering information from the public in a variety of ways, or “mixed methods”: telephone surveys, one-on-one interviews with key informants, focus groups, and written/oral/electronic submissions from the public. Social media (i.e., Facebook and Twitter) also provided opportunities to interact with the public. Secondary research included data and reports specific to the Trinity-Conception area, with provincial and national comparisons where possible. Getting input from numerous sources enables us to “triangulate” data, which means that if a theme emerges from several different research methods, then it most likely is a pressing issue in the area.
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS The wealth of information from the primary and secondary research was organized into themes to identify the issues that were mentioned most frequently throughout the region. These key themes are: (1) Preventive Approaches and Education: In general, people want to see an emphasis on the preventive aspects of health, such as education and awareness about the benefits of nutrition, physical activity and healthy lifestyles. (2) Health Services: Three main aspects of health services identified are: mental health and addictions, family doctors and satisfaction with services. Transportation was mentioned repeatedly in the focus groups and interviews as a barrier to access throughout the region, particularly given the geographic dispersion, the lack of public transportation and the limited availability of private transportation. (3) Social Supports/Community-Based Supports: Social support networks and communitybased services are strong in the Trinity-Conception area. While the level of commitment to supporting each other and our communities is commendable, there is a strong sense that more could be done to identify and meet needs at the local level and promote regional cooperation. (4) Communication and Awareness: It is important for programs and services to be well communicated in Trinity-Conception so that people are aware of and knowledgeable about what is available and how to gain access. (5) Housing: Housing and rental prices in many areas have increased while an already limited availability of rental properties has further decreased due to rising demand. There is also a need for suitable housing supports for vulnerable residents, particularly those with complex mental health issues or seniors living alone in older homes.
III