Oral

Hispanics represent an estimated 13% of the US population (US Census Bureau, 2002) and during the next two decades their numbers are projected to dramatically increase. The lack of health care and disease prevention are serious problems that have lead to a disproportional burden of chronic and infectious diseases. Access to adequate health care, tailoring prevention programs and increasing access to insurance are major challenges that must be addressed to improve every ones health. This session will discuss issues related to the marginalization of Hispanics, findings from Binational week 2006, the needs of agricultural workers and the design of the community health study.

Session Objectives: At the end of the session the participant will: 1. Discuss and understand the importance of valid measures when analyzing Latino characteristics and health outcomes. 2. Identify the differences in scale development between homogenous and heterogonous Latino sub-groups. 3. Identify the key findings from Binational Health Week 2006. 4. Recognize the benefits and challenges of binational collaboration and social mobilization, from grassroots to policymaking levels. 5. Emphasize the importance of community resident empowerment to achieve lasting social change. 6. Promote dialogue to develop policies that improve culturally competent, quality healthcare for Latino migrant populations.

CE Credits: CME, Health Education (CHES), Nursing