Assignment #2: Problem Justification and Needs Assessment
Each group will pick a health topic and, using the program rationale and needs assessment strategies you have learned, justify the need for the chosen health topic. The demographics and characteristics of the target population for the health education program should be discussed thoroughly. All sources must be properly cited in APA format both in-text and in a reference list at the end.
Describe the topic you will be addressing through your health education plan. Using literature review strategies, identify relevant background information about the scope of the problem. Include at least two epidemiological facts and at least one statement about economic cost.
1-2 paragraphs; worth 15 points
Identify your priority population. Describe how the health topic is relevant to this particular population. Identify any subgroups within this population who have greater need and describe their socio-demographic characteristics in relation to the health topic.
1-2 paragraphs; worth 15 points
Conduct a needs assessment of your population by using secondary data to address the following:
What are three major needs of this population with regard to your health topic? For each need (10 points):
Briefly describe the need and explain how it is related to the health problem (2-3 sentences for each need)
Discuss whether this need is a perceived or actual need (or both!) and briefly explain why (1-2 sentences for each need)
Which social conditions, indicators, and perceptions contribute to these needs? For each of the three needs you have identified (15 points):
List one predisposing, one enabling, and one reinforcing factor that contributes this need, and briefly explain how each factor contributes to the need (2-3 sentences per factor, per need)
What are two specific health problems under your broader health topic that you can address through a health promotion plan? For each problem (20 points):
Apply the BPR Model to explain why this problem should be prioritized (keeping in mind your specific priority population)
Explain why a health promotion program is an appropriate approach for addressing this problem (you only need to do this part)
