Community themes and strengths assessment: Evaluating quality of life using online survey methods

Background

MAPP (Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships) is a strategic approach to community health improvement. Community Themes and Strengths Assessment (CTSA) is one of four MAPP assessments which asks: How is quality of life perceived in our community?

Methods

CTSA survey questions were drafted based on the MAPP Handbook. Drafted survey questions were edited through discussion with community partners. A commercial online survey tool was utilized to create the survey which was then distributed via numerous email distribution lists. A paper version of the survey was created in both English and Spanish to reach additional audiences.

Results

2,491 surveys were completed; among those, 358 were paper surveys. CTSA survey participant demographics were very similar to age, race/ethnicity, age and income demographics for all Sedgwick County Kansas residents.

Across the fifteen demographic sub-categories studied, all selected "low crime" first and “good jobs/healthy economy” second as “most important factors for a healthy community”. Regarding “most important health problems,” the most frequently selected answer was Mental Health. The top five health problems identified by Black respondents were not the same as Whites. All demographic subgroups had consensus about the top three risky behaviors: “drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and being overweight”.

Conclusions

CTSA successfully engaged the community to consider quality of life; the process continues as the results are shared. Local public health officials will use these results to set priorities, strengthening community partnerships, and reflect on the role of the public health department to assure a healthy community.