Voices of Our Community: Experiences and Perceptions of Evidence-Based Programs for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management

Abstract

Chronic disease evidence-based programs (CDEBPs) that support lifestyle change have been in existence for decades and are associated with effective management of conditions like prediabetes, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. The present qualitative study examined several gaps in CDEBP implementation, which may limit their scope and appeal, by exploring individuals’ preferences regarding these programs. Guided by a phenomenological approach and informed by the Health Belief Model, a university research team conducted 38 semi-structured interviews with community members who had experience with or were eligible to participate in CDEBPs. Interviewees were a highly diverse group, recruited from multiple communities in Los Angeles County. When asked about what would influence their preferences for joining and completing CDEBPs, they reported several factors, including the cost of the program; duration of each session; length of the CDEBP; program scheduling and timing; program location; whether or not the mode of delivery was in-person or online/virtual; the class facilitator (health care professional versus peer health educator); whether classes were in an individual or group format; who recommended the program; availability of childcare, transportation, and incentives; and how urgent or serious they perceived the chronic condition to be. Study results provide insights that can be used to help program implementers improve their CDEBP delivery, particularly in strategies for client recruitment, participation, and completion of health education classes.