See what we say: using concept mapping to visualize Latino immigrant's strategies for health interventions.

OBJECTIVES

Researchers need specific tools to engage community members in health intervention development to ensure that efforts are contextually appropriate for immigrant populations. The purpose of the study was to generate and prioritize strategies to address obesity, stress and coping, and healthcare navigation that are contextually appropriate and applicable to the Latino immigrant community in Cincinnati, Ohio, and then use the results to develop specific interventions to improve Latino health in our area.

METHODS

A community-academic research team used concept mapping methodology with over 200 Latino immigrants and Latino-serving providers. A community intervention planning session was held to share the final concept maps and vote on strategies.

RESULTS

The concept maps and results from the intervention planning session emphasized a community lay health worker model to connect the Latino immigrant community with resources to address obesity, stress and coping, and healthcare navigation.

CONCLUSIONS

Concept maps allowed for the visualization of health intervention strategies prioritized by the larger Latino immigrant community. Concept maps revealed the appropriate content for health interventions as well as the process community members preferred for intervention delivery.