Open AccessThe Role for Community-Based Participatory Research in Formulating Policy Initiatives: Promoting Safety and Health for In-Home Care Workers and Their Consumers
Author(s) -
Fang Gong,
Sherry Baron,
Linda Ayala,
Laura Stock,
Susannah McDevitt,
Catherine A. Heaney
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
american journal of public health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.284
H-Index - 264
eISSN - 1541-0048
pISSN - 0090-0036
DOI - 10.2105/ajph.2008.152405
Subject(s) - community based participatory research , general partnership , participatory action research , stakeholder , focus group , public relations , citizen journalism , health care , occupational safety and health , business , health policy , public health , nursing , political science , economic growth , medicine , marketing , finance , economics , law
Although community-based participatory research (CBPR) can be effective in influencing policy, the process of formulating policy initiatives through CBPR is understudied. We describe a case study to illustrate how alliances among various community partners could be united to formulate policy directions. In collaboration with partners, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health initiated a project aimed at improving health and safety for low-income elderly and disabled persons and their in-home care workers. Community partners and stakeholders participated in focus groups, stakeholder interviews, and meetings; they played multiple roles including identifying organizational policy changes the partners could initiate immediately, as well as broader public policy goals. Results indicated that a strong community partnership, participation, and shared values contributed to successful formulation of policy initiatives.