How can the health care sector play an active role in changing environments to promote healthy eating and physical activity? Findings from the baseline healthcare sector assessment for the HEAC Initiative

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Maria Boyle, MS, RD¹, Liz Schwarte, MPH¹, Sarah Samuels, DrPH¹, Antronette Yancey, MD, MPH², and Brian Cole, DrPH². (1) Samuels & Associates, 663 13th st, 3rd floor, Oakland, CA 94612, 510.271.6799, maria@samuelsandassociates.com, (2) Department of Health Services, UCLA School of Public Health, Box 951772, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1772

PURPOSE: To share the results of the baseline health care sector assessment from the communities participating in The California Endowment's Healthy Eating, Active Communities (HEAC) Initiative in California. METHODS: Two data collection methods were used in the health care sector assessment. First, a self-administered Provider Obesity Prevention Practices Survey was administered to over 170 health care providers practicing in the HEAC communities. Respondents included a variety of direct service providers including, doctors, dietitians, nurses, physician assistants, promotoras, and community health workers. The survey assessed providers' efforts to incorporate obesity and diabetes primary prevention strategies into their routine interactions with pediatric patients and their families. This survey captured screening practices, patient communications, educational materials, and referral resources and frequency. Next, a Health Care Stakeholder Survey was conducted via telephone to collect qualitative information on opportunities and challenges to healthcare sector participation in environmental change, issues surrounding insurance coverage for obesity prevention activities, and resources needed to assist in environmental change efforts. Approximately 30 interviews were conducted for the stakeholder survey, and respondents included health facility administrators, public health department representatives, and health insurance organizations. FINDINGS: Results from the two surveys provide an understanding of the issues and challenges faced by health care providers and the health care sector in general in regards to their role in creating environmental change to promote healthy eating and physical activity. The presentation will discuss policy recommendations to address the institutional barriers faced by direct service providers and health care institutions interested in making environmental changes.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, participants will be able to