WADENA, Minn. – Jan. 26, 2026 – Astera Health has completed its 2025 Community Health Needs
Assessment (CHNA) to learn more about the health of people in Wadena, Todd, and Otter Tail counties.
Hospitals are required to conduct a CHNA every three years to maintain their tax-exempt status under the
Internal Revenue Service code as a part of the Affordable Care Act to ensure hospitals are responsive to the
health needs of their communities.

Astera Health asked for input from local residents, community organizations, schools, law enforcement, and
public health agencies. More than 1,800 people completed surveys and shared their thoughts. Also included in
the assessment were data from public health reports, internal data, and state and national health data to see
where communities in the region are doing well and where help is needed.

From this information and data, three main health priorities were chosen for the next three years:
Hypertension (high blood pressure) – Many adults in the area have high blood pressure, which can lead to
heart disease and stroke. Astera Health will focus on education, screenings, and support for healthy habits.
Obesity – Wadena County has one of the highest obesity rates in the state. Programs will continue to
encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and regular checkups.

Substance Use Disorder – Drug and alcohol use are major community concerns. Astera Health will expand
treatment options, provide prevention education, and continue to work with community partners to support
those affected.

Astera Health is working with public health departments, schools, and local organizations to address these
needs. Other areas like mental health, access to care, and family safety will continue to receive support
through community programs.

“By working together, we can create a healthier future for everyone who calls this region home. Astera Health
remains committed to improving the health and well-being of all people in our communities,” stated Shelly
Gompf, chief operating officer at Astera Health. Gompf oversees community efforts and invites local
organizations to participate in Astera’s Community Health Forums that occur twice a year, in June and
December. Local organizations can reach out to the marketing department at contact@asterahealth.org for
more information about or invitations to the Community Health Forums.

To read the full assessment, go to asterahealth.org/CHNA.

ABOUT ASTERA HEALTH
Astera Health is a private, not-for-profit health care system based in Wadena, Minnesota. It offers care
services such as primary health, surgery, cancer care, diagnostic imaging, obstetrics, orthopedics and
rehabilitation. Astera Health operates a hospital and medical clinic in Wadena, and serves the counties of
Wadena, Todd and Otter Tail through five satellite clinics and two physical therapy clinics in Bertha, Henning,
Ottertail, Sebeka and Verndale. Visit asterahealth.org.