"Encrucijada: Sin Salud, No Hay Nada" (“Crossroads: Without Health, There Is Nothing”) – A soap opera that incorporates health topics, Medicaid and CHP+ information into its drama

Background. The Spanish language soap opera Encrucijada: Sin Salud, No Hay Nada (“Crossroads: Without Health, There Is Nothing”) addresses health issues faced by the Spanish speaking Latinos (SSL) in Colorado. Encrucijada objectives were to 1) increase the number of SSL in Colorado who enroll in CHP+ and Medicaid; 2) increase SSLs' disease management knowledge; and 3) modify SSLs' behaviors that will have an overall positive impact in their health.

Methods. Encrucijada's health topics were identified by a group of Latino community leaders and health professionals. Health content information was provided by health topic experts and health promoters in the field. The Executive Producer and Health Content Coordinator worked hand-in-hand to integrate health content, Medicaid and CHP+ information into the twelve episodes. Information on each episode covered at least two important points for each health topic, addressed at least one myth or barrier, and provided at least one tool that the audience could use to address the health topic. Dramatic storylines delivered by professional actors kept people engaged throughout the duration of Encrucijada..

Results. Preliminary results indicate that Encrucijada audience learned about CHP+ and Medicaid, targeted illnesses; and ways to care for themselves. Results also show changes in attitudes, intentions, and behaviors.

Conclusions. Encrucijada has demonstrated to be an effective mass media tool to reach the Spanish speaking Latino community in Colorado.