title: A comprehensive, multitiered, targeted community needs assessment model: methodology, dissemination, and implementation.
abstract: This article describes methodological best practices for a comprehensive, multitiered, targeted community needs assessment and strategies used to disseminate and implement findings. Although the methods could be applied to different populations, this article illustrates a community needs assessment targeting older adults. The assessment methodology included public data; local healthcare facility data; telephone survey of older adults; targeted focus groups of older adults; and surveys of caregivers, service and healthcare providers, religious organizations, and key informants. Dissemination strategies included community forums and conferences, a Web site, and publications. Collaborative projects implemented to address areas identified for improvement are also described.
authors.affiliation: Center for Public Policy Research, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187, USA.
authors.forename: David H
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Finifter
authors.forename: Christine J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Jensen
authors.forename: Carol E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.forename: Bryan L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Koenig
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D017028:Caregivers; D003153:Community Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D033181:Information Dissemination / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*