Perceived Health Care Needs of a Select Arab-American Population in Northeast PA

Monday, 18 November 2013

Sandra Kundrik Leh, PhD, RN, CNE
Nurisng Department, Cedar Crest College, Allentown, PA

Learning Objective 1: Discuss 3 health care concerns of Arab Americans living in Northeastern Pennsylvania

Learning Objective 2: Identify advantages and challenges of using Community Based Participatory Research when working with vulnerable populations

Purpose:

The purpose of this research is to discover and describe the health care perceptions and experiences of a select group of Arab-Americans residing in northeastern Pennsylvania. The manner in which health care is provided will be identified. Perceptions of culturally sensitive health care delivery will be explored. By understanding the community’s perceptions of health and attitudes toward health care delivery, specific interventions and plans of care can be developed to better meet the needs of a diverse and underserved population. Study findings will ultimately enhance student nurses’ ability to provide culturally congruent care and lead towards the goal of reducing health disparities in an underserved population. 

Methods:

This qualitative study is being conducted using Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR) methods as a framework.  CBPR is an alternative to traditional population-based research that facilitates active partnership and collaboration between researchers and community members. This methodology gives the investigator a better opportunity to learn about health issues facing the community, design culturally sensitive interventions, and promote community participation in the research process. The primary goal of CBPR is to empower the community to take an active role in solving its own health problems by becoming involved in the research not only as participants but as investigators and expert sources. Community involvement with the research process leads to the development of more effective culturally appropriate methods and communication during the research process.

Results:

Research in progress

Conclusion:

This poster will outline the CBPR research process including recruitment of participants, data collection and analysis as well as the challenges encountered while using CBPR as a research method for this particular study.