HOLLAND, MI (WHTC) – Ottawa County residents will have the opportunity to give input on local health related needs and concerns.
It’s part of the Behavioral Risk Factor Survey (BRFS), which periodically monitors health among various geographic areas within Ottawa County. A total of 1,300 residents will be randomly selected and contacted by Grand Rapids based Barnes Research, Inc. Survey calls will be made through July to residents’ landline and mobile phones.
Marcia Mansaray, Epidemiologist says with caller id now they really hope people will answer the phone even though they won’t recognize the number.
Mansaray says mental health will be a big part of the survey.
“Such as how comfortable people feel with other people knowing they have a mental issue and how they feel like they are treated and perceived by the rest of the community. It’s definitely something that this whole community is talking about. We passed a mental health millage a year ago so it’s been a big deal. I think our community really is supportive of improving our mental health and helping those who have mental health needs or disabilities.”
Participation is voluntary and anonymous. If you are called, your participation is very important to the survey. Results are expected to be available by the end of the year. The survey will be conducted for those 18-years or older.
The Ottawa County BRFS is an initiative of the Ottawa County Community Health Needs Assessment Committee. Committee members are from Community Mental Health of Ottawa County, Greater Ottawa County United Way, Holland Hospital, North Ottawa Community Health System, Ottawa County Department of Public Health and Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital. Additional funding for the BRFS came from Ready for School and the Ottawa County SCAN Council.
