Healthy Community, Healthy Residents – How Community Health Impacts Everyone

Last month we celebrated Community Health Improvement Week, a week to reflect on those who work within the healthcare system and the local community to promote better health outcomes for everyone. The Hancock Health Connection Center embodies this concept every day. Our support navigators are here to help connect residents with available resources, whether they’re looking for help finding a mental health therapist, they’re confused about navigating their medical bills, or they’re simply struggling with the challenges of daily life.

The Connection Center, then known as Healthy365, was founded in 2016 as a Hancock Health community health improvement initiative. The initial focus was to form strong community relationships for a community-centric approach to overall well-being. Over the decade, the Connection Center has evolved to become a starting point for residents who don’t know where to start. The Connection Center staff members sit on several local community organization boards, and they are always trying to educate themselves about what’s available in Hancock County. This allows them to help people find answers, whether they’re seeking help with tobacco cessation, navigating the justice system, or struggling with substance misuse.

Why is this important? Hancock Health and the Connection Center staff understand that healthy communities are better for everyone, even people who aren’t currently struggling. Let’s look at how community health impacts all aspects of a community.

The importance of community health

When we think about health, it’s often in individual or family terms. Certainly everyone should have regular checkups and work to stay active,  but the health of the overall community can also have a powerful impact on individual health. Good community health is essential for sustainable communities, and can have long-term effects on every resident.

Economic stability: When someone calls in sick at work, that absence can affect coworkers as well. Absenteeism leads to reduced work performance and increased healthcare costs for employers. Chronic diseases may affect the labor force, especially if individuals aren’t getting proper care.

Healthcare costs: Communities with robust health systems can mitigate the economic burden of healthcare costs. For instance, preventative medicine and early intervention may reduce healthcare costs down the line, especially when it comes to treating chronic ailments.

Academic performance: Healthier students are better learners. When communities prioritize health by offering meal resources, physical education, and mental health resources, they build up the next generation and ensure the community remains vibrant and productive.

Community engagement: Most people are seeking a sense of belonging and a community bond. Healthier communities are more likely to exhibit strong social cohesion, which in turn can lead to better overall health of all residents. 

Crime reduction: There is a notable link between health and crime rates.  Communities with better health resources and support systems tend to have lower crime rates. By addressing physical health, mental health, and substance misuse concerns, communities can ensure a safer environment for everyone.

Informed decision making: Health data and statistics are crucial for informed government policies. That’s one of the reasons why Hancock Health regularly queries the community with its Hancock County Community Needs Assessment. Communities with comprehensive health data can identify trends, allocate resources efficiently, and implement policies that address specific health needs. This data-driven approach ensures that health interventions are effective and that public funds are used wisely.

By reaching out to community partners and working together, the Hancock Health Connection Center is dedicated to the health of both its residents and the community as a whole. Are you struggling with life’s daily challenges? Are you unsure about where to start? Call the Hancock Health Connection Center at 317-468-4231 or stop by our office at 120 W. McKenzie Road in Greenfield during regular business hours.