The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #65834

Kay Lovelace, PhD, MPH¹, Daniel L Bibeau, PhD¹, Hans H. Johnson, EdD², and Mary A. Glascoff, MSN, EdD². (1) Department of Public Health Education, UNC Greensboro, PO Box 26170, 437 HHP Building, Greensboro, NC 27401, 336-334-3246, klovelace@uncg.edu, (2) Department of Health Education and Promotion, East Carolina University, School of Health and Human Performance, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858

CDC describes information/communication capacity as a key component of the public health infrastructure. The current study investigated the availability and use of computers and information technology among all NC public health educators in local health departments (LHDs)(N respondents=204; 69%). Eighty-eight percent of the respondents had a personal computer on their desk for their exclusive use; 81% used word processing 4-5 days per week; 17% used WP 1-3 days per week. While 89% used email, only 59% used the internet 4-5 days/week. Respondents were much less likely to use other forms of information technology though. Forty-two percent reported using spreadsheets on a monthly basis, 34% power point for presentations, 12% data programming; 4% GIS; 7% distance learning, and 9% computer assisted instruction. Results of this study suggest that health educators use information technology for basic communication functions but are much less likely to use information and computer technology for higher level functions such data analysis, computer assisted instruction, and distance learning. Participants will brainstorm contributions to future research and strategic planning around health education practice regarding information technology.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to:
• • Describe public health informatics competencies and compare to CHES competencies regarding the use of information technology
• • Discuss the implications of current computer use among NC public health educator for the public health infrastructure

Keywords: Competency, Information Technology

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.