The survey, that is used nationwide, is called the Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey and is supported by the Centers for Disease Control.
In addition to tracking health, the KCHD says the survey will be used to create and evaluate programs to support health and prevent disease.
The questionnaire is anonymous and will be given via a phone call to randomly selected Kent County residents over the age of 18.
The department says the survey is given locally every three years. This year the University of Missouri’s Health and Behavioral Risk Research Center will conduct the questionnaire on the department’s behalf.
The BRFSS survey is used to gather information on various behaviors, health conditions and preventative health care practices.
The department says the survey has a core set of questions for all participants, but Kent County residents will be asked additional questions in an effort to gather more localized data. Participants will also be asked newly added questions this year about mental health, economic stability, health care access, racism, firearm safety and marijuana use.
The health department says collected data will be used for the Kent County Community Health Needs Assessment and the Community Health Improvement Plan.
Funding for the BRFSS survey comes from the KCHD, Corewell Health, Mary Free Bed, Pine Rest, Trinity Health Grand Rapids and the University of Michigan Health-West.
