![[ Visit Client Website ]](images/banner.gif)
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this presentation attendees will be able to:
- Describe the use of coalitions and strategic partnerships to inform and facilitate policy change in a rural community
This presentation will benefit anyone working in the tobacco control movement at the local level, especially those residing in rural communities with significant tobacco –related morbidity /mortality.
Key Points:
Background
Miller County has the third highest age-adjusted lung cancer incidence rate among white males in the state at 183.66 per 100,000 population compared to a statewide rate of 106.00 per 100,000. The Southwest Health District contracted with the Southwest Georgia Cancer Coalition to spearhead a tobacco control program in this region. Cancer Coalition staff recruited the Miller County Health Department and Spring Creek Health Cooperative to assist in forming a tobacco coalition to address tobacco related disparities in Miller County.
Methods – The Coalition contracted with Mercer University to conduct additional qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The information was presented to the coalition resulting in the development and implementation of a tobacco control work plan.
Outcomes
During the first year of the project, the Miller County School Board adopted the 100% Tobacco Free School model policy, and the Miller County Hospital has also adopted a Tobacco Free Policy. The Health Department Director and Health Promotion Coordinator presented an award for the 100% Tobacco Free Policy to the Miller County Board of Commissioners. During the year 2 Miller County Parks and recreation adopted a 100% smoke-free policy.
Educational Experience:
The presenters will describe in detail the processes and procedures developed and implemented to achieve policy outcomes.
Benefits:
The audience can apply the methods that are relevant to their particular situation to achieve policy change.