The Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) is a process by which local councils and clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) assess the current and future health, care, and wellbeing needs of the local community. Its purpose is to inform local decision-making.
JSNAs were introduced by the Department of Health in April 2008 to strengthen the relationship between the NHS and local councils.
The Health and Social Care Act 2012 gave responsibility for JSNAs (and the development of health and wellbeing strategies) to Health and Wellbeing Boards (HWBs). Their purpose is to reduce inequality and improve the health and wellbeing of the whole community.