The Well Person's Health Check: a population screening program in indigenous communities in north Queensland

Abstract

The National Indigenous Australians Sexual Health Strategy 1996-97 to 1998-99 provided the impetus and resources to assess the health of the large population of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in rural and remote communities in northern Queensland, Australia. This paper describes the development, implementation and results of a community based screening program designed to detect and treat sexually transmissible infections and a range of non-communicable conditions and attendant risk factors. The Well Person's Health Check, conducted between March 1998 and December 2000,demonstrated a high prevalence of largely preventable health problems and initiated the development of a sustainable early detection strategy for the region.

Chlamydia testing and notification in Australia: more money, more tests

“…Notification rates increased among those living in more advantaged areas contrary to socioeconomic disadvantage being an established risk factor for chlamydia infection 24 – 28. However, the increase in notifications in more advantaged areas is most likely a function of higher testing rates; the higher proportion of tests positive from disadvantaged areas is consistent with disadvantage being a risk factor for chlamydia.…”

The health and nutrition of young indigenous women in north Queensland – intergenerational implications of poor food quality, obesity, diabetes, tobacco smoking and alcohol use

“…Details of methods have been reported elsewhere (15) . Briefly, during 1999-2001, all indigenous residents aged 13 years and over in twenty-three small communities were invited to participate through printed media, local radio and word of mouth via the local health service, community council and community groups.…”

The Young Person Check: screening for sexually transmitted infections and chronic disease risk in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth

“…For example, the Well Person Health Check survey in north Queensland (1998-2000) reported 42.5% participation for those aged 15-34 years, but participation of the 15-24 age group is not reported, and is known to have been lower. 24 We support the 2012 call of Guy et al for comprehensive reporting of STI program outcomes and the development of a standard set of indicators to facilitate both reporting and the evaluation of programs. 25 The YPC was a service initiative, so attempts to identify important factors for a successful screen event rely on reflection and consensus.…”

“…Factors considered critical to participation included: community engagement (of community champions, local health staff and peer recruiters); a rigorously implemented advertising and recruitment strategy followed by personal invitation (previously demonstrated to be effective in north Queensland); 24 the priority given to a youth-friendly screen experience; and the material incentive ($20 voucher and the draw). Factors thought to have impaired participation included: concurrent important community events (funerals, local festivals); lack of local health staff involvement; and the spread of misinformation regarding the tests within the target group.…”