NURS-FPX 5003 Health Assessment and Promotion for Disease Prevention in Population-Focused Health
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A community health assessment is a comprehensive process that involves extensive data collection and analysis to identify critical health issues and needs within a community. It equips organizations with a deep understanding of the community’s requirements and current health status, thereby enabling the development of effective strategies for improving overall health. This assessment report will delve into the outcomes of previous initiatives and focus on the demographics related to diabetes in West Virginia. Additionally, it will explore insights gained from interviews with healthcare professionals, highlight crucial elements of the intervention plan, and propose approaches to promote cross-cultural collaboration.
Demographics Addressing Diabetes in West Virginia
In West Virginia, it is estimated that approximately 250,000 individuals have diabetes, with an additional 65,300 residents going undiagnosed. In 2010, the prevalence of diabetes among males stood at 12%, while for females, it was 11.5%. West Virginia is home to a diverse population comprising White, Asian, Hispanic, African American, and other racial and ethnic groups. Education serves as a significant social determinant of health, and analyzing the disparities between individuals with and without diabetes who have completed high school reveals valuable insights. Over a decade, those without a high school diploma exhibited a significantly higher proportion of diabetes cases compared to their educated counterparts (Health Statistics Centre, n.d.). These statistics underscore the importance of accessible programs based on evidence-based lifestyle changes to reduce diabetes risk (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019).
West Virginia exhibits varying diabetes prevalence rates across racial and ethnic groups, with an estimated 17% of Black individuals, 16% of White individuals, 9% of Asian Americans, 7% of non-Hispanic Whites, and 11% of multiracial individuals living with diabetes (America’s Health Ranking, n.d.). Diabetes affects around 12,400 West Virginians annually, constituting roughly 16% of the adult population. Medical expenses for diabetes patients are approximately 2.5 times higher than those for non-diabetic individuals, amounting to $2 billion in direct medical costs for diabetes diagnosis in West Virginia in 2017. Moreover, diabetes-related productivity losses added an additional $640 million in indirect costs (American Diabetes Association, 2018).
Demographics encompass a wide range of community characteristics, including age, education, income, employment, gender, and commuting patterns. Epidemiology plays a vital role in analyzing disease expression and its consequences within a population, relying on disease-related data to understand the community’s specific needs.
Analysis of Findings from Healthcare Interview
Effective insights into healthcare issues, prevention strategies, population needs, and culturally competent care can be obtained through constructive dialogues with healthcare professionals. Culturally and linguistically appropriate services (CLAS) emerge as a valuable tool to ensure equitable healthcare access for all, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity. These standards can be integrated into intervention strategies and evaluated based on an organization’s achievements and the efficiency of its staff (Think Cultural Health, n.d.).
Implementing the National CLAS Standards necessitates overcoming certain obstacles, including the need for additional resources and guidance on interpreting and applying these standards. West Virginia University Hospital follows a series of procedures before implementing CLAS standards, such as employing competent interpreters, providing training to current and new employees, and gathering essential patient background information related to ethnicity and language. Overcoming these obstacles will enable diabetic patients to receive equitable, high-quality care, eliminating disparities in healthcare access (Think Cultural Health, n.d.).
Key Components of Intervention and Health Promotion Plan
Successful public health programs hinge on effective communication of accurate information to the healthcare community, stakeholders, and the public, facilitating behavior change. Key elements of intervention plans include clear objectives, well-defined strategies, and regular progress monitoring (Fernandez et al., 2019). These plans enhance the quality of healthcare, leading to positive changes in healthcare systems and improved clinical outcomes for individuals and communities. Effective healthcare worker training is central to providing diabetes care within the community.
The following components of the intervention plan are vital:
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