What is the method by which public health collects information about community needs and resources?

The method by which public health collects information about community needs and resources is primarily through surveys and interviews. This approach allows for the gathering of quantitative and qualitative data directly from community members, providing insights into their health needs, perceptions, and the availability of local resources. Surveys can reach a large number of respondents quickly, while interviews can offer deeper insights into individual experiences and opinions. This combination helps public health professionals assess the community's health status, identify gaps in services, and inform program development and policy decisions.

Other options, while they may contribute to a broader understanding of health trends, are not as focused on directly assessing community needs and resources. Regular focus groups could provide valuable information, but if conducted only once a year, they may not capture the ongoing and evolving needs of the community effectively. International health comparisons can offer context and benchmarks for public health but do not directly address the specific needs of a local community. Annual health policy reviews are important for assessing and adjusting health policies but do not serve as a primary method for collecting community-specific data.