Rhythms of the Heart : An interprofessional community health collaboration to increase cardiovascular health knowledge

Abstract

Objectives:

Cardiovascular health continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the USA. An interprofessional collaborative team comprising university faculty and undergraduate students developed and presented a community outreach event to provide education and health screening to a diverse group of local residents.

Design:

An event entitled Rhythms of the Heart was planned and implemented to reach community members.

Setting:

The event took place on the campus of a private college in Central Florida, USA.

Methods:

Clinical services, including health screening for blood pressure and body fat, were provided, along with information on the benefits of smoking cessation, physical activity, weight management, healthy diet alternatives and stress reduction. Local community resources and educational materials were supplied to event participants.

Results:

The event attracted approximately 275 guests. An analysis of feedback from attendees indicated a greater appreciation of music to enhance one’s understanding of cardiovascular health. Students and attendees perceived the Rhythms of the Heart concert as ‘smart and creative’, ‘cleverly conceived’ and ‘well thought out’.

Conclusion:

This interprofessional outreach event provided a novel means by which to undertake community education and health screening.