Organizational capacity for chronic disease prevention in the Canadian public health system: Results of a national survey

Background: We conducted the first national survey of all 212 organizations in Canada with mandates for chronic disease prevention (CDP). In this abstract, we compare organizational capacity (OC) for CDP across regions and according to type of organization. Methods: Structured telephone interviews (95.5% response) were conducted in 3 types of organizations: those formally mandated to provide public health services (PHS), non-profit organizations (NPO), and grouped organizations (GO) (i.e. coalitions, partnerships, alliances, consortia). Data were collected on: (i) level of OC for CDP (measured by skills to implement CDP activities and resource adequacy); (ii) level of involvement in CDP activities; (iii) level of supports for OC; (iv) partnerships with other organizations. Results: PHS represented only 48% of all CDP organizations in Canada. Skill levels to implement CDP activities, involvement in CDP activities, and supports for OC were highest in Central Canada. Resource adequacy was low overall, but lowest in eastern Canada. The East reported the lowest number of partnerships but highest partnership effectiveness. In regard to organization type, involvement in CDP activities and level of supports for OC was highest in GO; resource adequacy was lowest in PHS; and NPO had the lowest number of partnerships, but highest level of partnership effectiveness. Conclusion: The infrastructure for CDP in Canada involves many different types of organizations beyond formally mandated PHS. There is variability in OC for CDP across Canada and type of organization. These data provide an evidence-base for better-informed decision-making in the public health system.