A health needs assessment focuses on identifying which of the following?

A health needs assessment is primarily aimed at identifying community health problems, which encompasses a broader range of issues than just basic needs. Through this assessment, public health professionals gather data to determine prevalent health concerns, access to care, and barriers to health services within a community.

While basic needs like food, water, and shelter are indeed critical components of public health and contribute significantly to overall well-being, they represent the foundational aspects that must be met for individuals to thrive. However, a health needs assessment goes further by investigating specific health issues, health disparities, and the effectiveness of available health services and interventions within the community.

Thus, focusing exclusively on basic needs does not capture the full scope of what a health needs assessment aims to achieve. It is essential for health professionals to understand all dimensions of community health in order to design effective interventions and allocate resources appropriately. This comprehensive approach ensures that all factors impacting health outcomes are considered, leading to more effective public health strategies.