About Us: History
The Community Health Council of Lebanon County was organized under the direction of the Good Samaritan Hospital in 1994. The purpose of the Council was to assess the unmet health needs of the County. To conduct this assessment a consultant was employed to survey county residents. The consultant analyzed results of 10,000 household surveys as well as information acquired from eight focus groups. In 2000, a repeat survey was completed with 10,000 random household surveys sent out. Results from this survey were analyzed and compared with the original survey to assess outcomes from current programs, and any new areas of community need.
In 2005, members of the Health Council board participated with the United Way to complete a community-wide assessment. A total of 3,300 surveys were distributed county wide with an 18% response rate. Additional information was obtained through 3 focus groups which included senior citizens ages 65-90, youth ages 12-15 and citizens of Hispanic origin - conducted in Spanish. In addition, community leaders were interviewed to assess perception of needs in the Lebanon Community. From this survey process, the top ten needs were prioritized, task forces were formed to evaluate these needs and propose a plan for how to proceed. This process is continuing as the community works together to address needs and improve the health and quality of life for citizens of Lebanon County.