Using the RE-AIM Framework in formative evaluation and program planning for a nutrition intervention in the Lower Mississippi Delta.

OBJECTIVE

Identification of prominent themes to be considered when planning a nutrition intervention using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance framework.

DESIGN

Qualitative formative research.

SETTING

Women's social and civic organizations in the Lower Mississippi Delta.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-seven (5 white and 32 black) women with a college degree or higher.

PHENOMENON OF INTEREST

Impact of dietary and contextual factors related to the Lower Mississippi Delta culture on intervention planning.

ANALYSIS

Case analysis strategy using question-by-question coding.

RESULTS

Major themes that emerged were "healthy eating focus" and "promoting a healthy lifestyle" when recruiting organizations (Reach); "positive health changes" as a result of the intervention (Effectiveness); "logistics: time commitment, location, and schedule" to initiate a program (Adoption); "expense of healthy foods" and "cooking and meal planning" as barriers to participation (Implementation); and "resources and training" and "motivation" as necessary for program continuation (Maintenance). The "health of the Delta" theme was found across all dimensions, which reflected participants' compassion for their community.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Results were used to develop an implementation plan promoting optimal reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance of a nutrition intervention. This research emphasizes the benefits of formative research using a systematic process at organizational and individual levels.