Keeping the end in mind: Using MAPP as a tool rather than the rule for planning

In an era of limited resources and increased expectations, planning is often low on health departments' budgets. Public health planning tools are useful but often focus heavily on the process of planning, rather than keeping the end in mind with an eye toward action. In 2010, Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) in Illinois used Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP) for the second time. Considering its experience using MAPP 5 years earlier, CCDPH adapted its planning process from the outset to address three key issues: 1) Planning for action from the beginning; 2) Promoting more of the public health system approach to address key strategic issues; and 3) Finding ways to reduce time and financial costs on partners' participation with increased commitment to implementation. Adaptations to the planning processes included unique data gathering methods on the Local Public Health System Assessment (LPHPSA) and Forces of Change aspects of MAPP. Technology including webinars and keypads for data presentations and voting was used to streamline key data gathering aspects, and allow time to focus conversations on consensus building and action. Results allowed for fewer meetings and the development of a clear conceptual model and action plan that can be adapted for any public health priority area. For LHD's with limited resources, CCDPH's use of a modified MAPP process offers lessons in maximizing effort, improving community engagement and developing plans better positioned for action from the start. Participants who attend this session will learn more about the potential strategies, models and tools for conducting MAPP and organizing for action planning.