During the past year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created two tailored versions of a general health communication tool (CDCynergy) for two chronic disease areas, cardiovascular health and tobacco control. CDCynergy is an interactive CD-ROM that includes case examples, a glossary, a media library, resources, and a tutorial to instruct users in health communication. The state-of-the-art tailored versions are intended to help state health department staff develop, implement, and evaluate communication projects and activities that support overall program goals. The presenters will first describe the history and theoretical foundation for the original CDCynergy CD-ROM and then provide details on the production of the two customized versions. They will explain the selection process for communication case examples and resources that support population-based strategies and policy and environmental changes. They will also review their state field testing, dissemination, and training plans for state health department staff and partners. The presenters will describe lessons learned from working on the tailored versions that can be applied to health communication technology tools and training approaches for a variety of chronic disease prevention programs. Extensive health-related resource listings will be shared with session participants.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify the steps required to customize a general planning tool on CD-ROM for specific chronic disease prevention programs. 2. Explain how to utilize a planning tool on CD-ROM to develop communication activities that support overall program goals for chronic disease prevention. 3. Discuss the importance of systematically planning health communication within the context of a larger public health intervention to prevent chronic diseases.
Keywords: Communication Technology, Chronic Diseases
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Federal Agency, employment