Risk Communication for Underserved and Limited English Populations
PubH 7200, Section 119
Class Number 91410, Credits 1
Register Online
June 9,10,11: 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
June 13: 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Download the syllabus.
Most risk communication courses cover principles applicable to majority
populations in the United States: the northern European-descendant,
English-speaking populations. The United States, however, is comprised of
diverse publics, including minorities and new Americans, that are largely
underserved by current risk communication strategies. Reaching these
underserved and limited English populations is of tantamount importance
as they are less likely to fully understand the public health system and may
be at greater risk of certain infectious and chronic diseases. Furthermore,
minority and limited English workers now comprise a significant proportion
of our food system employees, from migrant workers in the field to food
processing plant employees and food service workers. These workers not
only represent a particular population-at-risk, but they are also entrusted
with the safety and protection of the nation?s food system. Similar trends are
being seen in health care as well as other areas of particular public health
significance. The course will provide participants with an understanding of
the risk communication challenges in reaching underserved and limited
English populations. Specific techniques will be shared for risk communications
with hard-to-reach audiences, including the use of cultural agents, the
use of multimedia presentations and active engagement of populations in
planning for risk communication.
Download the handout.
Instructors: Lillian McDonald, Buddy Ferguson, Robert Littlefield
