Asian Pacific Community Health Action Model Implementation: Year 2

A framework has been developed and implemented to mobilize the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities to address health-related needs in Tucson, Arizona. There are four components in the Asian Pacific Community Action Model: (1) Acquire Knowledge – about API health issues, (2) Increase Health Issues Awareness –in the API Community, (3) Work with API Leaders – from various ethnic communities to develop and implement an action plan, and (4) Work with the Larger Community – in addressing API health issues. In 2008, the model was developed to provide a framework for working with API communities to address their health issues. All four components of the model have been implemented. The third component was implemented in August 2010 when the Southern Arizona Asian and Pacific Islander Health Coalition was formed, and its mission is “to mobilize communities for action to develop effective and sustainable programs to promote good health among Asian and Pacific Islander populations.” Soon after, an action plan was developed. The fourth component was initiated when an API Health Fair was conducted in April 2011 that provided an opportunity for the Coalition to work with the larger community. This presentation describes the strategies used to mobilize the API communities into action and to build community partnerships, work with the larger community, the effectiveness of the strategies used, and lessons learned during the second year.