What is a Community Health Board?

• On January 1st, 2001 the Health Authorities Act was passed in Nova Scotia giving Community Health Boards (CHBs) a legislated role in the health system.
• A CHB is a committed group of volunteers from your community who are working together to improve health.
• The CHB meets with residents and organizations concerning various factors that affect health, such as physical environment, education, employment, personal health practices and social support networks.  The CHB works with other groups and organizations to improve the health of our community.

What does the Community Health Board do?

The CHB has clear responsibilities outlined in the Health Authorities Act.  These responsibilities include:

• Developing profiles of the community that identify its strengths and challenges (e.g., environment, education, and employment).
• Developing and maintaining an inventory of community based services and programs in that community.
• Every three years to develop and submit a detailed Community Health Plan to Annapolis Valley Health (AVH), based on community consultation and evidence.  Updates will be provided annually. 
• Taking action at the community level to implement the CHB Plan.
• Encouraging the community to get involved in health planning.