How to Get a PHAB-Standard CHNA in 45 Days with CHNA Express™

JoAnn Andrews
Sep 25
2 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

County leaders are facing audits, fiscal deadlines, and increasing demands from funders who expect proof of results. Waiting 6–12 months for a traditional Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) is no longer an option.

That’s why Ascendant Healthcare Partners created CHNA Express™—a PHAB-standard assessment delivered in just 45 days.

Why Counties Can’t Wait for a CHNA

DOGE audits and compliance guidelines now require rapid reporting.
Funders want ROI data today, not next year.
Local boards and commissioners expect actionable results within their term.

Traditional CHNAs drag on for months, costing communities valuable time and momentum.

What Is CHNA Express™?

CHNA Express™ is a fast-track, fully PHAB-compliant Community Health Needs Assessment designed for health departments under tight deadlines. In just 45 days, AHP delivers:

Full MAPP 2.0 framework integration
Three assessments: Community Context, Community Perspectives, Community Partners
Qualtrics survey deployment and mySidewalk indicator data
Virtual facilitation and stakeholder engagement
A public-facing landing page with results

Why CHNA Express™ Works for Health Departments

Speed: 45 days from kickoff to final report
Compliance: Meets PHAB and federal standards
Clarity: Delivers results in plain language, ready for boards and funders
ROI: Bundles with our Cost to the Community™ analysis to show financial impact

The Cost to the Community™ Advantage

Pairing CHNA Express™ with Cost to the Community™ gives administrators the data they need to answer the toughest questions:

What’s the financial burden of chronic disease in our county?
Where are the highest costs by ZIP code or tract?
How do we demonstrate ROI to boards, commissioners, and funders?

This model transforms your CHNA from a compliance report into a funding and leadership tool.

The Importance of Timely Assessments

In today's fast-paced environment, timely assessments are crucial for public health leaders. Delays can lead to missed funding opportunities and hinder the ability to respond to community needs effectively. By utilizing CHNA Express™, health departments can ensure they are not only compliant but also proactive in addressing health challenges.

Engagement and Collaboration

Engaging stakeholders is vital for a successful CHNA. Our approach includes virtual facilitation, allowing for broader participation without the constraints of geography. This ensures that diverse perspectives are included, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of community health needs.

Real-World Impact

The results from CHNA Express™ are not just numbers; they represent real-world impacts. By understanding the financial implications of health issues, leaders can make informed decisions that benefit their communities. This is where the Cost to the Community™ analysis shines, providing a clear picture of how health investments translate into economic outcomes.