Evidence-based Training to Improve Communication between Health Advocates and State Policymakers

Persuading state policymakers to adopt effective child health policies requires effective communication from health advocates. This study examined the effectiveness of evidence-based communication training among child obesity advocates and their state legislators. A health advocacy group conducted training using evidence-based strategies and health-related policy updates in one Midwestern State Capitol building in January 2020. Twenty-three health professionals participated in the training prior to meetings with their legislators to discuss child obesity policies. An 18-item, pre- and post-questionnaire assessed training effects on knowledge, confidence, competence, importance of communicating, and future intentions to communicate with state policymakers. Satisfaction with the training was also assessed. Knowledge, confidence, importance, and future intentions to deliver child health messages to Missouri legislators all improved as a result of the training. Participants significantly increased their competence to speak with legislators on child health issues (Mann-Whitney U = 99.5; p = .039). Participants were very satisfied with the training and enjoyed receiving health-related policy updates and learning policymakers' preferred message frames related to child health. Evidence-based training and in-person practice can significantly improve the competence of health advocates for communicating with their policymakers. This in-person training is one feasible strategy for developing impactful child health policies and informing health education efforts.