Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) has published the findings of its 2024 community-wide health survey, a part of the city's ongoing Community Health Assessment. The department also recorded a 30-minute webinar detailing the key insights and made the full data available online.
Conducted in Fall 2024, the survey asked residents to identify Alexandria's major health issues, strengths, and areas for improvement. Over 2,000 people participated through paper and online submissions. Respondents' demographics closely matched those of Alexandria's population in terms of ZIP code, race/ethnicity, preferred language, household income, and age.
Key findings from the survey include:
- Mental health; alcohol, drug, and opiate use; as well as obesity, physical activity, and nutrition were identified as Alexandria’s most pressing health issues.
- Diversity; opportunities for involvement and belonging in the community; along with educational opportunities were seen as significant strengths.
- Safe, healthy, affordable housing; access to mental health and substance use services; and support for children, youth, and families were viewed as factors that could greatly enhance Alexandria’s overall health.
Responses varied among different groups. For example, older adults and individuals with higher education levels pointed to chronic health conditions as a primary concern while those with lower incomes prioritized dental health.
Residents can explore the complete survey results and view the recorded webinar on the CHA/CHIP website. AHD plans to incorporate these findings into an extensive data analysis for the Community Health Assessment. This assessment will be released by June 2025 to guide residents in creating a new five-year Community Health Improvement Plan.
Alexandrians are encouraged to contribute to this assessment by submitting photos related to health for a community album. Further details will be provided soon. Additionally, residents can participate in a Community Walk and Talk event scheduled for Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m. in the Landmark/Van Dorn area. More information is available online.
For inquiries about the survey or how to get involved:
- Speak with AHD staff at an Office of Housing meeting on Tuesday, March 18 from 7 – 9 p.m., at Patrick Henry K-8 School Cafetorium.
- Visit the CHA website.
- Email questions to healthmatters@vdh.virginia.gov.
Translation services are available upon request via LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or by calling 703.746.3960. For disability accommodations contact Sean.Curry@vdh.virginia.gov or call 703.746.4979.
Media inquiries should be directed to Eve Elliott at Eve.Elliott@vdh.virginia.gov or call 804.467.5160.
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