Date of Conferral

2-28-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Education and Promotion

Advisor

Patricia Talbert

Abstract

Individuals in underserved communities face barriers to the management of chronic disease compounded by the lack of consideration of the social determinants of health in health education interventions. This qualitative study explored the perspectives and experiences of adults living in underserved communities who have graduated from an integrated program in a large metropolitan area in the United States. Mobile integrated health programs, conducted by community paramedics, work in underserved communities within citizens' homes, managing chronic disease. Limited research exists regarding the perspectives of participants who have received interventions from integrated programs and the perceived impact these interventions have on reducing health disparities in underserved communities. Nine semi-structured in-person interviews took place in the homes of participants. Grounded theory methodology informed the data collection and analysis process, resulting in the emergence of the theory of time, home, understanding, management, bespoke, and strengths-based (THUMBS). The theory of THUMBS explains the experiences of graduates of this integrated Health program by emphasizing their perspectives and experiences of self-confidence in chronic disease management from ample time with health education, in-home interventions, understanding of health-related information, perceived successful management of chronic disease, bespoke education and intervention, and a strengths-based approach. This qualitative study contributed to reducing the research gaps in participant perspectives in underserved communities and guiding new and ongoing integrated health education efforts to reduce health disparities in underserved populations.

Download

Share

 
COinS