Outcomes of training rural, Appalachia community-based cancer coalitions,agency and clinical partners in adapting and using evidence-based programs

Purpose: Evaluate the impact of a regional training on the importance of using and adapting evidence-based programs (EBPs) for rural Appalachian communities in PA and NY.

Design and Methods: A community-based educational intervention with pre-post test design was used. Members of 10 NACN coalitions, community agency staff, and clinicians were recruited by mail and e-mail. A two-part training was developed using NCI's Using What Works (UWW) program to introduce participants to the importance, appropriateness, and adaptation methods of EBPs. The training was collaboratively developed and delivered by Partnership Program staff of the Atlantic and New York Region of the CIS. Primary outcomes were change in self-reported knowledge and self efficacy related to training content.

Results: Of 28 respondents, 25 (89.3%) completed training on Part I, while 35 individuals completed Part II. Substantial change in knowledge were shown on most items assessed from pre-to post-test, including: what EBPs are and their importance (86%-100%); locating primary and secondary data sources (72% to 100%); methods of program adaptation (37% to 100%); application of SMART objectives (53% to 76%); confidence in locating a research-tested intervention (53% to 76%); tailoring an EBP (37% to 100%); and evaluation methods (47% to 100). Five (50%) or more NACN coalitions subsequently applied their training, utilizing or adapting EBPs in their community planning efforts.

Conclusions: The UWW training was highly effective in increasing self-reported knowledge and efficacy for using and adapting EBPs among rural Appalachian cancer coalitions, which ultimately may help reduce cancer health disparities within this population.