Using a multi-pronged evaluation plan to examine the reach, impact, and effectiveness of comprehensive SNAP-Ed nutrition education and obesity prevention programming strategies in Los Angeles County, 2013

Introduction: Beginning in 2013, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) received funding to deliver an array of Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention (NEOP) programming focused on improving policy, systems, and environments (PSE) to highly diverse populations living in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP)-Ed eligible regions of Los Angeles County. We present the development and dissemination of a tiered, mixed-methods evaluation focused on assessing the reach, impact, and effectiveness of this innovative application of SNAP-Ed funding. 

Methods: In conjunction to reviewing NEOP Scope of Work to ensure key evaluation mandates were met, DPH coordinated with funder and NEOP program analysts to develop a comprehensive evaluation plan examining various levels of the socio-ecological model.

Results: Existing random digit dial telephone surveys of key target groups were augmented to examine NEOP impact at the population level. A context scan compared SNAP-Ed programming in relation to other public health interventions within similar geographical areas. Environmental scans using a pre-existing scan tool documented environmental changes in NEOP targeted communities. At the individual level, a pre-post matched pair design examined impact of evidence-based direct and indirect nutrition education curriculums. Additionally, intercept surveys sought to examine impact of select PSE-focused interventions on individual health behaviors. Intervention reach was tracked using a pre-existing activity tracking form.

Conclusions: Little is known about the new SNAP-Ed funding approach to improve socio-ecologic barriers to healthy eating and to improve population health behaviors among SNAP-Ed populations. Findings from NEOP evaluation efforts provides a unique opportunity to address this gap.