 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
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| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Sandra J. Diehl, MPH, Coastal Area Health Education Center, PO Box 9025, Wilmington, NC 28402-9025, 910-343-0161, sandy.diehl@coastalahec.org, James G. Wallace, MPH, Health Behavior and Health Education, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, and Monique G. DeUnger, MEd, Cape Fear Community College, 411 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Purpose: Eight percent of households in North Carolina report speaking a language other than English at home. Census and vital statistics data reflect a growing population of adults across the state with limited English proficiency. This program is creating and piloting a curriculum that provides health information through English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. The program is designed to meet the needs of a growing multicultural population with limited English skills.
Program Description: Expecting the Best is a curriculum that provides (1) health information and education to improve health literacy skills, and (2) English instruction to promote functional literacy and communication skills. The North Carolina community college system is a key collaborative partner in promoting the program’s long-term sustainability and replicability across the state. Other partners include state-level health representatives, educators, technical consultants, and the North Carolina March of Dimes. Fourteen lessons focusing on health care, nutrition, and exercise and fitness have been developed and piloted in 3 locations to date. The program will be expanded across North Carolina in 2003. Classes will be held in various settings, including health organizations, community college campuses, and community-based organizations.
Outcomes: We will evaluate several anticipated outcomes, including: (1) increased English proficiency; (2) increased health literacy; and (3) increased knowledge of local services that meet individual needs.
Conclusion: English acquisition is a valuable commodity and influences how effectively a person interacts with providers, services, and his/her environment. This program provides an innovative approach to enhancing communication skills and increasing health knowledge.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Health Literacy, Health Education Strategies
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.