Lessons Learned From the Creating Active Communities and Healthy Environments Toolkit Pilot: A Qualitative Study.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Environmental Health
• Military Health

Background:

• The US Army Public Health Center developed the Creating Active Communities and Healthy Environments (CACHE) Toolkit.
• The toolkit evaluates built environments for healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco-free living on military installations.
• Previous implementation data is limited, necessitating further assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the implementation process of the CACHE Toolkit.
• To evaluate the utility of the Action Plan Guides following toolkit implementation.
• To identify factors influencing the effectiveness of public health initiatives in military settings.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys, focus groups, and interviews.
• Baseline data were collected via a knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs survey (N=34).
• Post-implementation data involved focus groups (N=2) and interviews (N=10) at five military installations.

Main Results:

• Over 80% of participants acknowledged the impact of the built environment on healthy living.
• Only 44%, 53%, and 35% believed their installations promoted healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco-free living, respectively.
• Key themes included improving toolkit functionality, the influence of the sociopolitical landscape on implementation, and the impact of both sociopolitical and physical landscapes on the toolkit's value.

Conclusions:

• The study offers valuable insights for refining the CACHE Toolkit and similar public health programs in military contexts.
• Addressing implementation barriers within the sociopolitical and physical environments is crucial for maximizing toolkit utility.
• Enhancing toolkit and Action Plan Guide functionality is recommended for improved effectiveness.