The St. Paul-Ramsey County Public Health Department has launched an online survey to determine the health issues that residents consider most important.

The survey, which is confidential and doesn't delve into personal issues or behaviors, covers a variety of health issues, including access to medical and dental services, infectious diseases, drinking and smoking, environmental issues and children's health.

The results will help the department prioritize its work over the next few years.

"You don't have to work in health care or have any specialized knowledge to take the survey," said public health director Marina McManus. "Our goal is … to capture the full range of health needs of the county's diverse communities."

The survey can be found at www.surveymonkey.com/s/NLRVKVL or through a link at www.healthyramsey.org. For hard copies of the survey, call 651-266-2400 or e-mail AskPH@co.ramsey.mn.us. The survey can be taken through April 5.

KEVIN DUCHSCHERE

@KDuchschere