Improving chronic disease management using community-based participatory research in the chicago public schools

Background: Chronic diseases are a serious and growing health concern for the Chicago Public Schools (CPS). It is estimated that 25% of the CPS student body is affected by asthma, food allergy, and or diabetes. CPS partnered with Northwestern University on a two-year research study called Improving Chronic Disease Verification and Medication Access in the Chicago Public Schools. Purpose: The study aims to determine the prevalence and variability of asthma, food allergy and diabetes among Chicago public school children and assess barriers to adherence to new chronic disease management policies. Significance: CPS has passed new progressive policies to increase the reporting and school-level management of asthma, food allergy and diabetes. However, implementation of these policies remains a challenge. To enhance chronic disease management it is imperative to know how many students are affected, and to break down barriers to policy compliance. Methodology: Community-based participatory research strategies were utilized to engage eight participating elementary schools and their health stakeholders. Both quantitative and qualitative data is being collected through student medical chart review, surveys, focus groups and cognitive interviews. Findings/Results: Data is being collected and analyzed to determine the prevalence of these chronic conditions among Chicago public schoolchildren. Results will be used to refine the policies and processes pertaining to the verification of chronic disease, access to medication in school and school-level management. Conclusions/Recommendations: Findings from the study will serve as a model for other large school districts looking to implement chronic disease management policies.