Making the transition from lead poisoning prevention to healthy homes: a qualitative study.
OBJECTIVE
The goal of this study was to create a guide for programs considering transition from Lead Poisoning Prevention to Healthy Homes. Healthy Homes programs are comprehensive, focusing on multiple residential housing hazards. This study focused on the Baltimore City Healthy Homes Division, which was selected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to pilot the transition process.


METHODS
For this qualitative study, data were collected through interviews with program staff from the Baltimore City Healthy Homes Division and followed up by focus groups with community members who received its services. Grounded theory procedures were used for data analysis. Interviews and focus groups were conducted in Baltimore City near the Health Department. Seventeen interviews were conducted with Baltimore City Healthy Homes Division staff. Three focus groups were held with 3 to 6 community participants in each group.


RESULTS
Findings for the study are arranged around an organizational framework for which transition from Lead Poisoning Prevention to Healthy Homes is the central phenomenon. Three general themes emerged: (1) programmatic changes; (2) policy changes; and (3) partnerships. Quotations from participating staff and community members provide supporting evidence for the results.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings provide insight into the strengths and challenges of transition for 1 program. The study has implications for change on a national level as programs around the country transition to provide families with comprehensive Healthy Homes services.
Maring
Elisabeth F
EF
University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD 20742, USA. efmaring@umd.edu
Singer
Barbara Jones
BJ
Shenassa
Edmond D
ED
D015142:Baltimore; D004782:Environmental Health / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D017144:Focus Groups; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007855:Lead Poisoning / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016730:Program Development; D011635:Public Health Administration; D011638:Public Housing / Q000592:standards*; D000078329:Workforce