Recorded presentation

Nelda Mier, PhD, Elaine M. Hernandez, MEd, MPH, and Karen Denison, MPH. School of Rural Public Health, Texas A&M University, South Texas Center, 701 E. Vermont Room 128, McAllen, TX 78503, 956.668.6318, nmier@srph.tamushsc.edu

This study explored the feasibility of a community college based program that would meet state certification requirements and the needs of Hispanic promotores (community health workers) serving the border US-Mexico. The study was a qualitative research design based on focus groups with Hispanic promotores and face-to-face interviews with community organization representatives. Participants suggested that an academic curriculum for promotores should open a career pathway to additional training at the post-secondary level. An academic curriculum should include environmental health, English as a Second Language (ESL), GED preparation, basic health promotion and disease prevention information, communication, computer literacy, and personal safety courses. Barriers identified by participants included English language instruction, liability issues, lack of transportation, lack of daycare services, financial costs, and lack of full-time employment opportunities for promotores. Participants were concerned about the possibility of losing the “natural helper” philosophy that prevails among promotores in the US-Mexico border. This study highlighted the implications of designing and implementing an academic program for Hispanic promotores.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the learner will

• Understand the role and needs of Hispanic promotores and community organizations when designing curricula for promotores serving US-Mexico border populations.
• Identify the barriers to academic training of non-certified Hispanic promotores and barriers to hiring certified promotores.
• Discuss the implications of certifying Hispanic promotores at the border within the contexts of program development within academic settings and policy formulation within government departments.

Keywords: Community Health Promoters, Environmental 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.

Recorded presentation