Which assessment tool is commonly used to evaluate community needs after a disaster?

The Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) is a comprehensive method used to identify and prioritize the health needs of a community, particularly following a disaster. This tool collects vital data from community members, stakeholders, and health professionals to assess how a disaster has affected the population's health and what needs must be addressed in terms of resources, healthcare services, and psychological support.

In the aftermath of a disaster, the CHNA serves as a guiding framework for health organizations and public agencies to understand the specific challenges faced by the community, including increased health risks, disparities in access to healthcare, and mental health needs. By facilitating a clear understanding of these needs, the CHNA ultimately aids in developing effective interventions and resource allocation, promoting a more resilient and responsive recovery process.

Other tools mentioned in the options serve different purposes; for instance, the Disaster Recovery Index (DRI) is typically used to measure the recovery progress of a community rather than to assess ongoing needs. The Crisis Management Scale (CMS) focuses more on evaluating crisis intervention methods rather than community needs specifically. The Emergency Response Framework (ERF) outlines operational guidelines for emergency management but is not primarily used for assessing community needs post-disaster.