218265 °Manténgase informado(a)! : Understanding and taking action to diagnose and manage rheumatoid arthritis

Tuesday, November 9, 2010 : 4:30 PM - 4:45 PM

Edgar Gil, MBA , Center for Science and Policy, National Alliance for Hispanic Health, Washington, DC
Abstract: The National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance) will lead a Community Health Services Survey program in early February/March 2010. °Manténgase informado(a)! will survey physicians and community agencies on early diagnosis, referral, and treatment services on rheumatoid arthritis available in Hispanic community agencies, and/or offered by physicians with offices in highly populated Hispanic neighborhoods. Objectives of this survey include: to determine the capacity of community health centers and physicians who treat the medically underserved in terms of rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and specialization; and to better understand what training, tools and resources are needed for early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis within underserved communities, as well as, raising overall awareness of the disease. Survey results will be used to recommend plans to integrate early diagnosis and referral into ongoing community health services. The Alliance with Clarus Research Group will conduct in-depth interviews with 100 Community Health Center medical directors, and with 100 general physicians with offices in highly populated Hispanic neighborhoods.

Results: °Manténgase informado(a)! interview instruments will include a quantitative core of questions so that the entire sample can be analyzed to some extent within demographic segment and nationally, broadening and enriching the overall analysis. This proposed research design will allow us to report reliable quantitative findings with adequate sample sizes and statistical integrity.

Learning Areas:
Assessment of individual and community needs for health education
Chronic disease management and prevention
Diversity and culture
Implementation of health education strategies, interventions and programs

Learning Objectives:
1. Discuss the barriers to rheumatoid arthritis early diagnosis in Hispanic community health delivery settings. 2. Identify actionable steps for integration of rheumatoid arthritis early diagnosis and timely referral services into community services.

Keywords: Arthritis, Hispanic

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have 10 years of experience in project management in the community development arena. For the last four years, I have been working with the Alliance, the nation’s foremost science-based source of information and trusted advocate for Hispanic health and well-being, on numerous programs related to the provision of adequate health care for the Hispanic Community across the United States. I presently serve as Senior Health Program Manager overseeing Hispanic outreach initiatives on: Cardiovascular Health, Physical Activity, Environmental Health, Arthritis, and Depression. I also serve on numerous advisory committees on health, workforce, and business development.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

Back to: 4380.0: Latinos and chronic diseases