Web-based survey of US health educators: challenges and lessons

Objective To report the challenges and lessons learned while conducting a nationwide Web-based survey of US health educators. Methods We developed a Web-based survey, entitled Health Promotion and Genetics/Genomics Survey, to assess health educators' likelihood to adopt genomic competencies into health promotion; 1924 health educators responded (adjusted response rate = 23.1%). Results This study addresses challenges identified in the electronic surveying process: population identification, sampling, instrument design, survey implementation, and data preparation/analysis. Strategies for dealing with these challenges are proposed. Conclusions This practical example contributes to the further development and refinement of guidelines and best practices for Web-based surveying of US health educators.