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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Patricia Lussier Duynstee, PhD, RN, University of Massachusetts at Lowell, College of Health Professions, Lowell, MA 01854, 978-934-4537, PDuynstee@aol.com
This study proposed and examined the utility of a six-concept model targeted at explaining the process of community readiness for needle exchange. A decision-making geopolitical community was explored within a case study design. The six concepts in the model include history, knowledge, leadership involvement, community involvement, a social matrix made up of attitudes, norms and values, and political compatibility. Theoretical propositions derived from the concepts directed the inquiry consisting of thirteen in-depth interviews and content analysis of over 200 written documents. The coding of data and pattern-matching to the conceptual propositions further specified the concepts and identified the components and processes underlying community readiness. Relationships among these components and processes emerged. Community readiness was then linked to community decision-making and policy formulation relative to a harm reduction/health promotion issue (needle exchange program). Based on the structure of the model, clearer guidelines are now available to communities and their relevant constituents to better inform and mobilize health policy decision-making on important health care issues. By using this comprehensive community readiness model, a thorough assessment can be conducted and then followed by strategic planning that respects the complexities of community decision-making. This may improve the chances of successfully introducing a new health innovation and improve access to health programs.
Learning Objectives:
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.