Recorded presentation

Othelia W. Pryor, PhD, Department of Medicine, Michigan State University, B333 Clinical Center, East Lansing, MI 48824-1313, 517-432-2085, othelia.pryor@ht.msu.edu and Rosalyn Y Beene-Harris, MPH, Hueman Beene Consultants, 5525 Cambridge Club Circle, Suite 306A, Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

Purpose: To demonstrate a community-based, participatory, needs assessment model implemented in two African American communities.

Background: In, 2003, Michigan State University received funding to conduct a genetic needs assessment in the African American community. A Community Advisory Board (CAB) governs the Michigan GENE Demonstration Project that operates in Flint and Lansing, Michigan. Six community-based organizations, which serve on the CAB, represent a broad spectrum of the African American community. Their history and reputation allowed them to successfully engage their constituencies in dialogue regarding genetics education.

Research Methodology: The CAB members organized focus groups in each community. The data from each session was analyzed to identify educational themes and concerns germane to genetics education among African Americans. These topics were utilized to develop a facilitator’s guide that framed the discussion in four consecutive dialogue sessions, hosted in each community. A reiterative process was used to glean and validate the data. The findings were disseminated to community residents for final approval during community meetings.

Conclusion: The data collected is currently being used to develop culturally appropriate genetic education materials, identify possible interventions and foster continued partnerships around genetics education.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be informed of

• a community based participatory model for engaging residents in the African American community,
• elements of a partnership model that facilitates trust,
• use of qualitative research data to develop a genetic needs assessment, and
• issues and concerns culturally and linguistically appropriate genetic education material.

Keywords: Access and Services, Genetics

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am an employee of Michigan State University. The Department of Medicine received a grant to conduct this research from HRSA: Genetics Branch of the Maternal Child Health Bureau and the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation.

Recorded presentation