The Fishers Health Department presented draft priorities for 2026, summarized progress on a community health assessment (CHA), and outlined an accreditation timeline aimed at national public-health standards.

Staff described the CHA process as threefold: secondary data analysis, a community survey, and seven focus groups conducted in recent weeks. Early synthesis shows recurring priorities including mental health (with emphasis on youth and older adults), social determinants of health, chronic-disease prevention and healthy aging. Presenter Jen (staff member) said the CHA synthesis would be turned into a report and shared with the board ahead of Thanksgiving for use in grant-seeking and program planning.

The department also said it will pursue accreditation through the public-health accreditation board (PHAB/FAB referenced as FAB in discussion). Staff described a quarter-by-quarter roadmap: a gap analysis in the current quarter, documentation and internal mock-readiness checks in early 2026, submission for readiness in late 2026 and potential accreditation in late 2027 or early 2028.

Staff reported workforce and program updates: the department has an open public-health nurse position that will also serve as the school-health liaison, and staff highlighted upcoming programming including healthy-aging education, fall-prevention classes, a ‘‘hidden in plain sight’’ vape-room educational experience and continuation of strong COVID- and travel-vaccine demand.

Board members were asked for input on priorities; members encouraged continued storytelling and public messaging to drive community engagement around the department’s work and facilities. The board supported the proposed priorities for further refinement and review.

Ending note: The department will finalize the CHA report for the board and use it to guide grant applications and programming in 2026; staff will continue accreditation preparations and recruitment for the school-health nurse role.