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Abstract #149141

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Brenda L. Dobson, MS, RD, LD, Iowa Department of Public Health, 321 East 12th, Lucas Building, 4th Floor, Des Moines, IA 50319, 515/ 281-7769, bdobson@idph.state.ia.us

The Value Enhanced Nutrition Assessment (VENA) policy guidance for WIC nutrition services introduced a new approach — health outcome-based nutrition assessment. This participant-centered approach builds on two national public health initiatives (Healthy People 2010 Objectives and Bright Futures) by using health outcomes as a focal point to collect information rather than focusing on deficiencies. Health outcome-based nutrition assessment consists of desirable health outcomes, health determinants, and relevant information including WIC nutrition risk factors, knowledge, skills, attitudes and beliefs, cultural practices, family and social environment resources, and access to food and health care services. This systematic approach expands nutrition assessment beyond program eligibility determination to more effective interventions. Health outcome-based nutrition assessment allows staff to emphasize strengths and healthy practices, creating a positive context that helps the participant, parent or guardian recognize steps for attaining good health and empowers them to make behavior changes.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the two national public health initiatives that are the foundation of the health outcome-based WIC nutrition assessment.
• List the components of the health outcome approach.
• Describe how this approach creates a positive encounter for WIC participants and leads to more effective nutrition interventions.

Keywords: Nutrition, Assessments

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

• Slides (pdf) or Handout