Unit V Essay
Instructions
For this assignment, you will assume you are a professional community health educator employed by your State Department of Health. After conducting basic research on health statistics for your state, choose a health issue of particular interest to you that is either already prevalent or is a growing concern in your state.
In essay format, you must discuss how you would deliver health education regarding that issue to your constituency. Your essay should accomplish the following:
- Begin with an introduction that clearly presents your thesis by describing the health issue and the imperative for health education in this area.
- Conclude with how you could use the health belief model (HBM) and the visual, aural, read/write, and kinesthetic (VARK) model for the community health education on this issue. Give specific examples of how the models can be applied.
- Explain appropriate teaching methods that can be used to provide this education. Give specific examples of how you would use these methods across the various demographics of your state.
Your essay must be at least two pages in length, not counting the title or references pages. You must use at least three sources, one of which may be your eTextbook, to support your project. All sources used must have citations and references in APA Style. APA formatting is otherwise not required.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a professional community health educator employed by the State Department of Health, it is imperative to choose a health issue of particular interest and deliver health education regarding that issue to your constituency. For this assignment, I have chosen to address the prevalence of diabetes in the state of California.
Essay:
Diabetes is a growing concern in California, with an estimated 10.4% of the population affected by the disease. The imperative for health education on this issue is clear – diabetes is a chronic disease that can lead to serious complications and premature death if left untreated.
To deliver successful health education on this topic, I would begin by using the health belief model (HBM). This model focuses on the attitudes and beliefs of individuals with regard to their health and their motivation to make positive health choices. Specifically, I would emphasize the importance of diabetes screening and early detection. The HBM would help me to convey the seriousness of the disease and encourage individuals to prioritize their health by taking preventative measures.
Additionally, I would utilize the visual, aural, read/write, and kinesthetic (VARK) model to ensure that my presentation appeals to all learning styles. By incorporating visual aids, auditory presentation, written materials, and interactive activities, I can help individuals to better absorb and retain the information. For example, I might provide a brochure outlining the symptoms of diabetes and steps for prevention, as well as lead a hands-on cooking class demonstrating healthy, diabetic-friendly recipes.
To ensure successful delivery of this education, I would employ teaching methods appropriate for the various demographics of California. For example, I might engage in community outreach to provide presentations in low-income and minority neighborhoods where diabetes prevalence is highest. Additionally, I would coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure that education is available in clinical settings such as hospitals and community health centers. Culturally appropriate materials and language interpretation services would also be provided to overcome language and cultural barriers.
Conclusion:
By utilizing the HBM and VARK models, as well as appropriate teaching methods, I am confident that my messaging on diabetes prevention and care will make a positive difference in California communities.
