Prioritization
Community health needs were prioritized using a modified Hanlon Method, a widely recognized public health prioritization framework that supports objective, transparent, and data-informed decision-making. The modified approach considered the magnitude and severity of each health issue, health equity disparities, community input, the effectiveness of potential interventions, and the feasibility of addressing each need based on available resources and community capacity.
To better reflect lived experience, the 2026 CHNA introduced a weighted composite scoring methodology. Primary community input, including the community survey, focus groups, and key informant interviews, accounted for 50 % of the final score. Secondary data, including health indicators, trends, and disparities, accounted for 40 %, while community urgency, as identified during the January 2026 Community Forum, accounted for the remaining 10 %. This intentional weighting ensured that community voice remained the primary driver of prioritization.
During the prioritization process, each health topic was scored across these criteria using the modified Hanlon framework. Composite scores were then calculated, with lower scores indicating higher priority. This structured approach allowed Renown Health, Northern Nevada Public Health, and community partners to consistently evaluate community health needs and identify where collective action would have the greatest impact.
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