308437
Cancer Disparities Reduction Collaborative: Implementing a Community-based Screening Intervention in Appalachia
METHODS: A mixed-method evaluation included qualitative data from field visits (representing a total of 13 counties in three Appalachian states), in-depth interviews with Appalachia program staff, focus groups with CNPs and CHAs (n=20), and a survey of Appalachia-based CNP members (n=40).
RESULTS: Findings indicate that Appalachian intervention sites had unique struggles when compared to African American community sites. In particular, volunteer recruitment and retention, the “decentralized” nature of services, and individual level factors were all cited as barriers to implementation. Individual level factors included a culture of “privacy,” and low literacy and educational levels.
CONCLUSION: While Community Health Worker interventions can play a significant part of addressing health disparities, community context must be fully understood for programs to be successfully implemented. The Appalachia region encompasses many distinct communities and program structures must be tailored to each community’s specific cultural and geographical needs.
Learning Areas:
Administer health education strategies, interventions and programsProgram planning
Public health or related education
Social and behavioral sciences
Learning Objectives:
Identify key challenges in implementing a community-based screening intervention in Appalachia communities
Keyword(s): Cancer Prevention and Screening, Rural Health
Not Answered