Design of an evidence-based web faith assessment tool to reduce health disparities

Objective: To discuss the development and use of an evidence-based faith assessment tool for nutrition, physical activity and smoking cessation.

Setting: Faith based communities in Michigan.

Method: Research methods included, a comprehensive literature review on previous research studies, program successes and barriers; focus groups with target audience representatives; and design and testing of a web tool.

Result: The Michigan Promoting Health Congregations Assessment Tool (www.mihealthtools.org/faith) was created to enable faith organizations to identify assets and barriers and serve as a guide in the development of a plan to address policy and environmental changes focused on increasing levels of healthy eating, physical activity and smoking cessation.

Literature review and focus group data identified the following areas to address: faith-based organization infrastructure & polices; communications about health topics; health opportunities offered by the church; referrals and networking to community resources; and direct support of healthy lifestyles and role modeling.

The tool provides faith organizations feedback and an action plan to create an environment conducive to healthy eating, physical activity and smoking cessation.

Over 50 leaders have completed the assessment and designed action plans for implementation.

Conclusion: A faith based assessment tool can help serve as a policy tool to promote the modification of nutrition, physical activity and smoking behaviors among African American church members. It can be helpful in working with local and state governmental agencies in the reduction of health disparities.