Sara E Simonsen1, Brenda Ralls2, Anna Guymon2, Teresa Garrett1, Patricia Eisenman3, Jeannette Villalta4, O Fahina Tavake-Pasi5, Valentine Mukundente5, France A Davis5, Kathleen Digre6, Stephen Hayes7, Stephanie Alexander8. 1. University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, Utah. 2. Utah Department of Health, Salt Lake City, Utah. 3. Exercise and Sport Science, University of Utah College of Heath, Salt Lake City, Utah. 4. Hispanic Healthcare Task Force, Salt Lake City, Utah. 5. Community Faces of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah. 6. University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah. 7. Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, District of Columbia. Electronic address: Stephen.hayes@hhs.gov. 8. Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, District of Columbia. Electronic address: Stephanie.alexander@hhs.gov.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Coalition for a Healthier Community for Utah Women and Girls (CHC-UWAG) focused on addressing obesity-related health disparities impacting Utah women of color using community-based participatory research, a gender-based approach, and culturally sensitive health promotion activities delivered through community health workers (CHWs). A randomized trial of low vs. high intensity wellness coaching by CHWs was initiated. During this process, numerous policy issues emerged and were tracked. We present a case study illustrating how we identified, tracked, and engaged with emerging policy initiatives. METHODS: Between September 2011 and August 2017, policy initiatives addressing obesity-related disparities among Utah women and girls were identified, tracked in a shared document, and updated regularly. Policies were classified by level (organizational, local, and statewide) and by focus (healthy eating, active living, and promotion of community health workers). CHC-UWAG engagement with policy work was also documented and tracked. RESULTS: Broad dissemination of study findings generated interest in the role of CHWs in addressing obesity. Partnering community-based organizations implemented policies focused on healthy eating and physical activity. Barriers to the broader use of CHWs in Utah were addressed in policy initiatives including the formation of a Utah Public Health Association Section for CHWs and a statewide CHW Coalition with involvement of CHC-UWAG members. CONCLUSIONS: The regular solicitation of information about policy initiatives resulted in successful policy tracking and engagement in policy work. The utilization of a gender-based approach helped illuminate the impact of emerging policies on the health of women and girls. Published by Elsevier Inc.
BACKGROUND: The Coalition for a Healthier Community for Utah Women and Girls (CHC-UWAG) focused on addressing obesity-related health disparities impacting Utah women of color using community-based participatory research, a gender-based approach, and culturally sensitive health promotion activities delivered through community health workers (CHWs). A randomized trial of low vs. high intensity wellness coaching by CHWs was initiated. During this process, numerous policy issues emerged and were tracked. We present a case study illustrating how we identified, tracked, and engaged with emerging policy initiatives. METHODS: Between September 2011 and August 2017, policy initiatives addressing obesity-related disparities among Utah women and girls were identified, tracked in a shared document, and updated regularly. Policies were classified by level (organizational, local, and statewide) and by focus (healthy eating, active living, and promotion of community health workers). CHC-UWAG engagement with policy work was also documented and tracked. RESULTS: Broad dissemination of study findings generated interest in the role of CHWs in addressing obesity. Partnering community-based organizations implemented policies focused on healthy eating and physical activity. Barriers to the broader use of CHWs in Utah were addressed in policy initiatives including the formation of a Utah Public Health Association Section for CHWs and a statewide CHW Coalition with involvement of CHC-UWAG members. CONCLUSIONS: The regular solicitation of information about policy initiatives resulted in successful policy tracking and engagement in policy work. The utilization of a gender-based approach helped illuminate the impact of emerging policies on the health of women and girls. Published by Elsevier Inc.
Authors: Jeanette M Daly; Raul Calderon; Daniel J Hoffman-Zinnel; Laura A Wynohrad; Brandy N Powers; Tami L Mohr; Barcey T Levy Journal: Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) Date: 2018-06-06 Impact factor: 2.520
Authors: Sydney K Willis; Sara E Simonsen; Rachael B Hemmert; Jami Baayd; Kathleen B Digre; Cathleen D Zick Journal: Womens Health Rep (New Rochelle) Date: 2020-08-31