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Louisiana Parish Health Profiles 1999: using information to drive local action.
L Sumrall1, K McCaffery, M Roberts
1Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health, Policy, Planning and Evaluation, USA.
Summary
The Parish Health Profiles offer community-level data beyond health status, including education, economy, and safety. This resource aids planning and fosters inter-agency collaboration for improved quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Community Health Assessment
- Health Informatics
Background:
- The Parish Health Profiles (PHP) are a key resource for community-level planning.
- The third edition broadens the definition of health to encompass quality of life.
- Information includes health status, education, economy, environment, and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide comprehensive, parish-level health and quality of life data.
- To support community-level planning and decision-making.
- To foster collaboration among state information-providing agencies.
Main Methods:
- Compilation of data on health status and broader quality of life indicators.
- Development of a reader-friendly publication emphasizing data comprehension.
- Implementation of an 18-month, multi-level evaluation process for continuous improvement.
Main Results:
- Strengthened relationships among information-providing agencies.
- Creation of a comprehensive chapter on community action and resources.
- Enhanced understanding of community quality of life through a broader health definition.
Conclusions:
- The Parish Health Profiles serve as a vital tool for community health planning.
- The publication's evolution ensures it meets user needs through ongoing evaluation.
- Inter-agency collaboration and comprehensive data enhance community well-being.