Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County (Public Health) today announces the re-launch of its newly redesigned Community Health Assessment, this local health data assessment is an online public resource that brings together timely, trusted, and locally curated health data in an accessible, user-friendly format. The upgraded platform reflects Public Health’s commitment to transparency, community engagement, and informed decision making.
The updated Community Health Assessment, available on Public Health’s website at cha.phdmc.org consolidates key public health indicators, including community health outcomes, environmental measures, emergency preparedness data, and population demographics, into one centralized location. It also introduces enhanced accessibility features, ensuring that all residents, regardless of ability, can engage with and understand the data that shapes the public’s health in Montgomery County.
“Locally curated and reliable health data is the backbone of public health,” said Jennifer Wentzel, Health Commissioner, Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County.“ In an era where information is everywhere, and often generated by artificial intelligence without verification, our community deserves data that is sourced, reviewed, and interpreted by real public health professionals who understand our region.”
Key Features of the updated Community Health Assessment include:
- Locally Curated Data: All datasets are reviewed and validated by the department’s epidemiology team to ensure accuracy and relevance to the community.
- Improved Accessibility: The platform now incorporates plain-language descriptions, screen reader compatibility, high contrast display options, and mobile friendly dashboards.
- Enhanced Search Capability and Navigation: Provides an easily accessible search menu.
- Transparent Data Sources: Each dataset contains information about the original data source, ensuring residents can trace information back to reputable, evidence-based providers.
- Interactive Dashboards: Users can explore trends, map health indicators geographically, and download charts for research, reporting, and grant applications.
- Community Centered Insights: The health assessment highlights neighborhood level health conditions, enabling local organizations, policymakers, and residents to advocate for resources where they are needed most.
A Trusted Alternative to Unverified Artificial Intelligence (AI) Online Information
With the rise of generative AI tools and automated content, inaccurate or misleading health information can spread quickly. The Health Assessment is designed to serve as a trusted, authoritative alternative, offering real-world data sourced from local surveillance systems, Ohio Department of Health reporting, and established national institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. Census Bureau.
“AI tools can be helpful, but they cannot replace the accuracy and accountability of real public health data,” said Dawn Ebron, Epidemiology Manager. “Our residents can depend on the Community Health Assessment as a reliable source for understanding health trends in our county.”
Accessing the Health Assessment
The update Community Health Assessment is available now at cha.phdmc.org. Community members, researchers, journalists, and partner organizations are encouraged to explore the platform and share feedback as data is updated throughout the year.
Video demonstration: https://youtu.be/DeqRhlAk_KE
