Search

Abstract The involvement of consumers in the planning and development of health services has been encouraged and, in some cases, mandated. This involvement is viewed by many as a democratic or ethical requirement in that consumers have a right to influence services. Connecticut has been working toward the full implementation of a children's behavioral health system of care since 1997 but has lacked the mechanisms needed for family members to have their voices heard or to be full partners at decision-making tables. This paper is a case study that highlights work that has been done to 1) gather systematic feedback from families through the use of participatory research methods; 2) increase family access to data; and, 3) build the capacity of caregivers with the goal of increasing their involvement and leadership at all levels of the system of care. Highlights • The involvement of consumers in the planning and development of health services is encouraged. • Involvement of consumers is viewed by many ethical as consumers have a right to influence services they receive. • Connecticut has been working to engage family members as full partners at children's behavioral health decision-making tables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objectives: The paper describes the formative research conducted toward developing a health behavior change program for underserved pregnant women. It is provided as an example to guide researchers, academics, and practitioners on how to incorporate dissemination in all aspects of project planning and implementation. Design and Sample: A series of formative research was conducted, including an advisory council, expert interviews, 6 focus groups and 5 usability interviews with the target population ( n=53), key informant interviews, expert reviews of the pilot program, and a pilot test ( n=87). A total of 140 underserved pregnant women were recruited from Community Health Center Inc. in Connecticut. Results: The extensive formative research served to lay the foundation for the development of a healthy pregnancy behavior change program. The pilot test exemplified the feasibility and acceptability of the program. Conclusion: Successful adoption of interventions depends upon strong formative research, participatory research methods, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to dissemination from project inception. The development of the intervention discussed serves as a useful and practical example for others working in health care and behavioral medicine to improve the overall health and well-being of the underserved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]