The Prevention Research Center at Washington University in St. Louis (PRC at WashU): Adoption & Implementation of Evidence to Mobilize Local Health (AIM-Local Health) Project
In public health, evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) stands as a cornerstone for effective strategies in addressing chronic diseases. Recognizing the pivotal role of local health departments (LHDs) in this area, the Prevention Research Center at Washington University in St. Louis (PRC at WashU) along with collaborating LHDs embarked on a journey with the Adoption & Implementation of Evidence to Mobilize Local Health (AIM-Local Health) Project.
The AIM-Local Health Project aimed to empower LHDs with the tools and knowledge necessary to integrate EBDM into their operations. By fostering a culture rooted in scientific evidence and community engagement and insights, the project sought to enhance the effectiveness of chronic disease prevention and management efforts at the local level.
Over several years, PRC at WashU collaborated closely with 12 mid-to-large LHDs in Missouri, offering tailored training and technical assistance to develop EBDM plans aligned with each LHD’s priorities. Through a comprehensive approach encompassing program planning, quality improvement frameworks, community engagement, evaluation, and program adaptation, participating LHDs were equipped with the skills and tools to navigate the complexities of chronic disease prevention.
At the culmination of the project, PRC at WashU and the partner LHDs gleaned invaluable insights into the practices that bolster EBDM implementation. Six management practices emerged as instrumental in supporting EBDM within the context of local health departments. Moreover, the collaboration yielded additional recommendations poised to fortify the foundation of EBDM and elevate the impact of chronic disease prevention programs across communities.
To learn more about how your local health department can integrate EBDM and strengthen chronic disease prevention programs in your community, explore the AIM-Local Health resources below.
- Evaluation Webinar Series of AIM-Local Health: Dive into a series of informative webinars designed to explain the intricacies of evaluation within the context of chronic disease prevention and management.
- AIM-Local Health EBDM Resources: Access a comprehensive repository of resources curated to facilitate the integration of EBDM into LHDs.
- AIM-Local Health Infographics and Findings: Concise visual representations of key findings and insights derived from the AIM-Local Health Project, serving as valuable resources for LHDs, stakeholders and policymakers alike.