Enhancing Community Partnerships to Promote Preventative Health Screenings and Lifestyle Changes among Underserved Populations

Background: Chronic diseases, the leading causes of death in our society, are highly preventable. Chronic diseases are more prevalent among the poor, racially and ethnically diverse groups and the uninsured. Underserved populations often lack access to preventative measures. Norton Healthcare is committed to reducing such health disparities in our community. We aim to increase access to affordable prevention measures though community based health screenings and intervention programs and by empowering community organizations with tools to sustain wellness initiatives long term.

Methodology: We developed a mechanism to enhance community partnerships and engage key community organizations in prevention measures at a grassroots level by holding a competitive grant process. The focus was on health screenings, nutrition, exercise, tobacco cessation and reduction of obesity. Applicants were required to demonstrate the ability to design, implement, and evaluate a wellness program. Awardees were supported with program development and implementation expertise, and educational materials. Eight faith based organizations were awarded.

Results: Community partners stated that the grant process helped to increase access of affordable wellness programming in communities where health and economic disparities are major barriers to health.  The partnership allowed them to identify people with serious health risks and refer them for further care. Grant funding was used towards capacity-building, training, and wellness infrastructure.

Conclusion: Since 2011, approximately 800 individuals participated in wellness activities during two grant periods. Participants showed improvements in weight, BMI, blood pressure, and enhanced self-efficacy in maintaining healthier behaviors. Grantees have increased capacity to sustain wellness programing long term.