Public health officials in state and local areas are frequently required to make decisions with very little information available on the extent and distribution of a public health problem to which the issue in question pertains. In addition to professional intuition and experience, there are systematic approaches to help the practitioner make an assessment of the local magnitude of a health problem. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. This paper will review several options available to officials for making synthetic or model-based estimates based upon national or other non-local data that is available in such situations. Strengths and weaknesses of the estimates related to specific applications are discussed. Alternative approaches are suggested and evaluated, again with reference to specific applications. Finally, a geographically based data system for use in small areas will be described and examples of applications will be offered.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this talk, the participant should be able to: 1. describe options available to local officials for estimating the extent and distribution of a local health problem using synthetic estimation or statistical modeling, and 2. list comparative strengths and weaknesses of these options.
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.