Introduction
Chronic diseases continue to be a significant burden on public health, particularly in low-income neighborhoods where access to preventive care is limited. The BETTER intervention, originally designed for primary care settings, has been adapted into BETTER HEALTH, a program tailored for public health settings. This adaptation aims to address the unique challenges faced by community residents in low-income areas, providing them with the necessary tools and support to improve their health outcomes.
Understanding the BETTER HEALTH Intervention
The BETTER HEALTH intervention leverages public health nurses as Prevention Practitioners (PPs) to deliver comprehensive chronic disease prevention and screening (CDPS) services. This approach is particularly beneficial in low-income neighborhoods where residents often face barriers such as poverty, social isolation, and daily stress, making chronic disease prevention a lower priority.
The intervention was adapted using the ADAPT-ITT model, which involved community engagement and feedback from residents to ensure the program met their needs. Key adaptations included incorporating community resources into the BETTER toolkit, focusing on social determinants of health, and providing confidential, one-on-one visits with PPs.
Key Findings from the Research
The qualitative evaluation of the BETTER HEALTH intervention revealed several important insights:
- Challenges in Daily Life: Residents reported significant challenges, including poverty, mental health issues, and social isolation, which impacted their ability to prioritize disease prevention.
- Value of PPs: The presence of PPs was highly valued, as they provided trustworthy, client-centered care and practical suggestions to overcome barriers to achieving health goals.
- Importance of Community Resources: Accessible community programs and resources were crucial in supporting residents to make positive lifestyle changes.
- Feeling Heard and Understood: Residents emphasized the importance of feeling listened to and understood by PPs, which facilitated trust and engagement in the program.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners looking to implement or enhance chronic disease prevention programs, the BETTER HEALTH intervention offers valuable lessons:
- Engage with the Community: Involve community members in the adaptation and implementation process to ensure the program meets their needs and addresses local challenges.
- Focus on Trust and Relationship Building: Establishing trust and building strong relationships with residents is crucial for successful program delivery and engagement.
- Utilize Community Resources: Leverage existing community resources and networks to support residents in achieving their health goals.
- Provide Personalized Care: Tailor interventions to individual needs and preferences, emphasizing achievable short-term goals and practical solutions.
Conclusion
The BETTER HEALTH intervention demonstrates the potential for adapted public health programs to improve chronic disease prevention in low-income communities. By focusing on community engagement, trust-building, and personalized care, practitioners can enhance the effectiveness of their interventions and contribute to reducing health inequities.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Adaptation and qualitative evaluation of the BETTER intervention for chronic disease prevention and screening by public health nurses in low income neighbourhoods: views of community residents.
