The paucity of health services targeting South Asians (SAs) in New York City is largely due to the lack of data regarding the health needs of this growing ethnic group. New York AANCART is addressing this unmet need through a project with three goals: to 1) Determine the health needs of NYC SAs; 2) Assess health institutions’ cultural competency; and 3) Assess individual provider level cultural competency. This presentation will offer strategies for effective collaboration with community- based organizations (CBOs) to conduct research in under-served communities. Methods: AANCART has established relationships with several SA CBOs. During their scheduled meeting times, AANCART offers educational seminars regarding cancer awareness and prevention. A survey regarding health needs is distributed to the attendees. Additionally, CBO’s are assisting in identifying key hospitals and clinics that are frequented by SAs. AANCART is conducting surveys of these institutions to determine what services are directed towards SAs. The survey is conducted via phone to hospital staff, and is supplemented with site visits. With the assistance of CBOs, AANCART is also conducting focus groups of SAs who are patrons of the institutions being surveyed in order to gain the patient’s perspective on services received. Results: The seminars conducted have been well received. We have experienced little opposition in completing surveys or answering our questions. Conclusion: Conducting research in under-served populations is most effective when done in collaboration with CBO’s. With the data collected, AANCART seeks to recommend and initiate future programs promoting preventative health care within the SA community.
Learning Objectives: This presentation will offer strategies for effective collaboration with community- based organizations to conduct research in under-served communities.
Keywords: Special Populations, Community-Based Partnership
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: AANCART (Asian American Network for Cancer Awareness, Research, and Training)
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.