The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #61594

G.F. Pyle, PhD and Rita DiGioacchino DeBate, PhD, MPH, CHES. Department of Health Behavior and Administration, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Chalotte, NC 28223, 704-687-4262, gfpyle@email.uncc.edu

This study identifies perceptions influencing capacities to deliver health and social services to children aged 0 to 5 in two typical North Carolina textile manufacturing counties. Methods include triangulation of a survey, interviews, and focus groups with reference to barriers and specific inhibiting factors. Twelve focus groups are used to assess underlying factors influencing services utilization. Surveys and interviews include parents or primary caregivers, both English and Spanish speaking. Perceptions of key leaders and point-of-contact personnel are also included Point-of-contact service providers expressed an awareness of less than half of agencies in the area available for further referral, including some within their own organizations. Results from nine different resident focus groups include many negative attitudes and inaccurate perceptions of available services, largely due to poor flow of information. Key leaders generally expressed few problems with the delivery system, and mostly focused on explanations of agency policies and procedures. Foci identified for intervention included low awareness of existing family support services in the study counties; negative and inaccurate community attitudes about existing service; limited referrals from point-of-contact organizations to other existing support services; and a poor flow of information about health services. Study recommendations include the establishment of a, consolidated point of entry for health and social services, improvement of information flow via a centralized system, a specialized oversight committee, and sensitivity training for those involved in direct provision of services.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to:
• Understand triangulation of infornmation derived from surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• Develop related assessments in similar areas.
• Understand the magnitude of disconnect between parents of ypung children and key leaders.

Keywords: Access and Services, Children's Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.