Feasibility of a community action model oriented to reduce inequalities in health

To assess the feasibility and achievements of a systematic community action model, Health in the Neighbourhoods, in two deprived areas of Barcelona.

The feasibility of the model implementation in two neighbourhoods was assessed. The model developed three stages aiming: (1) to make alliances with partners and stakeholders, (2) to develop a participatory needs and assets assessment, and (3) to plan, implement and evaluate interventions on the community prioritised needs. The feasibility of the model at each stage was assessed through the percentage of achievement of 18 indicators. It was evaluated between 2007 and 2011.

The achievement of the indicators exceeded an average of 75% in both neighbourhoods. In stage 1 community working groups were set up. In stage 2 a comprehensive assets and health needs assessment was done through quantitative and qualitative methods, as well as participative prioritizations of community health problems. In stage 3, the community working groups defined an action plan and a number of interventions against the prioritised problems, based on evidence and local assets reviews. Interventions were developed, implemented and evaluated.

This structured model, including a small set of indicators, enabled the implementation of a community action model with neighbourhoods' stakeholders. The model showed flexibility to adapt to neighbourhoods' characteristics and the objectives were successfully met. The alliances and partnerships with community and municipal sectors promoted the sustainability of most interventions.