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

Abstract #68616

Alyce Smith Cooper, RN, MA, Quality Assurance Project, California Black Health Network, 7840 Mission Center Court, San Diego, CA 92108, 619-295-5413, sc_cbhn@pacbell.net

Abstract

The California Black Health Network Quality Assurance Project located in San Diego, California, surveyed African-American communities in the area to ascertain their knowledge of and attitudes toward the existing health care system. Over 740 male and female survey participants, representing a wide range in age, responded regarding their personal interactions with the system. The survey looked at, among other things, if and when they sought medical attention, their perceptions of those experiences within the system, and what alternatives to professional care were routinely utilized. The survey results identified some interesting intergenerational differences within the community in approach, practice and philosophy toward wellness.

As we look at today’s generation compared to the generations of 50 to 70 years ago, we find some striking differences in the approach to personal health maintenance and the prevention of illness. The older generation had an emphasis on applying prevention and wellness techniques, such as the use of “folk” remedies, over-the-counter medicines, and appropriate seasonal dress, etc, that have not always been effectively communicated to subsequent generations.

Our presentation discusses the extent to which this information gap has impacted the African-American community’s health and what can be done to reclaim the lost knowledge. It also addresses generational differences that must be acknowledged, understood and thoughtfully considered in developing meaningful approaches to assure quality health care for the African-American community.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will learn the perceptions of the health care system as viewed by the African-American community and measure by our survey results.
• Participants will learn how intergenerational differences within the community color the perception of quality health care.
• Participants will learn health related tools and techniques used by older African-Americans who had limited access to the health care system.
• Participants will learn how today's generation is trying to recapture some of the "old remedies" of their elders, and the subsequent impact on their health status.

Keywords: African American, Quality of Care

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.