Using a matrix-based geographic prioritization framework to identify community health needs in rural Ghana: Findings from a multi-domain community needs assessment

Title : Using a matrix-based geographic prioritization framework to identify community health needs in rural Ghana: Findings from a multi-domain community needs assessment

Abstract:

Healthcare planning is most effective when informed by the priorities, experiences, and needs of the communities it serves. As part of an Applied Practice Experience at Richard Novati Catholic Hospital (RNCH) in Sogakope, Ghana, this project examines community health needs within the Fievie catchment area through a comprehensive community needs assessment. The assessment was designed to support local health planning efforts and identify opportunities to strengthen preventive healthcare services, maternal and child health programs, and community wellness initiatives. A matrix-based geographic prioritization framework was developed to identify communities with potentially elevated needs across multiple health domains and guide data collection efforts. Using a structured questionnaire administered through KoboToolbox, the assessment examines healthcare access and utilization, preventive health awareness, food security, housing conditions, transportation barriers, mental health, social support, community safety, maternal and child health indicators, and community-identified priorities for health improvement. This presentation will describe the development of the assessment tool, adaptations made to address local health priorities, and the implementation of the matrix-based approach used to guide community selection. It will also discuss how social determinants of health are being integrated into local health planning and resource allocation efforts. Preliminary observations and planned analytical approaches will be presented, along with reflections on conducting community-engaged public health research in a rural Ghanaian setting. Findings from this work are expected to provide actionable information for healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers seeking to strengthen preventive health programming and improve health equity within the Volta Region.

Biography:

Rachel Oriuwa is a recent graduate of Tufts University and an incoming Master of Public Health student concentrating in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. She is currently completing her Applied Practice Experience at Robert Novati Catholic Hospital in Sogakope, Ghana, where she is leading a community needs assessment examining preventive health, maternal and child health, healthcare access, and social determinants of health within the Fievie catchment area. Her work focuses on generating community-driven evidence to inform health planning and resource allocation in rural settings. Rachel's interests include global health, health equity, epidemiology, and community-based research.