What do you think are the most pressing medical issues facing Suffolk?

That’s the question that Bon Secours Hampton Roads Health System wants Suffolk residents to answer with an online survey that will be conducted through Nov. 30. The anonymous survey is available at chna.bonsecours.com.

The answers will be used to develop a community heath needs assessment that specifically targets Suffolk, said Lynne Zultanky, health system spokeswoman.

The Affordable Care Act requires all nonprofit hospitals to prepare and publish updated community needs assessments, as well as action plans to address those needs, once every three years.

“Firsthand information is always the best information,” she said. “We want people to tell us their specific concerns … because we don’t want to develop programs using a one-size-fits-all approach.

“These survey responses will help up improve the overall physical health of the community and identify where we need to invest our resources,” said Zultanky.

Community service has always been a focal point for Bon Secours, which owns an emergency room and several medical practices at Harbour View, Zultanky said.

Last year, Suffolk had visits from Care-A-Van, a free mobile medical service that provides care to uninsured adults and children; a faith nurse ministry, which trains nurses to work with churches; diabetes education classes; and free flu shots, Zultanky said.

Oftentimes, Bon Secours can partner with churches or nonprofits with existing programs to address community needs, she said.

“There is a synergy when people collaborate and you often get better results when you work together,” she said. “I am a strong believer in collaboration.”

Even cities in close proximity to one another can have different health needs, she added. For example, one locality with a large Hispanic population may have a need for an English as a second language class.

To date, approximately 600 people have taken the online survey. Those unable to take the survey online can call 889-2273 to request a copy by mail.