Knowledge and perceptions of human trafficking among community-based and faith-based organization members in South Los Angeles.

The objectives of this study were (1) to assess the knowledge and perceptions of human trafficking (HT) among leaders and staff from 11 community-based organizations (CBOs) and faith-based organizations (FBOs) in South Los Angeles, and (2) to identify gaps in knowledge of HT and inform community organizations regarding possible best practices in health promotion for addressing this emerging public health problem. A self-administered survey was conducted during the period from 4 December 2015 to 28 January 2016. Descriptive statistics were generated and a logistic regression model was constructed using SAS 9.3. A total of 277 CBO and FBO leaders and staff completed the survey. Participants demonstrated high levels of knowledge of HT but their knowledge was not comprehensive, as gaps exist in recognizing the context in which HT usually takes place; understanding the local laws that govern this activity; and ways to follow related policies/procedures when the problem is suspected. A majority (a) believed there were not enough services in Los Angeles County to help survivors of HT, (b) could not recognize the signs of HT, and (c) did not know what steps to take if they suspected this criminal activity. A statistically significant association was found between education and participants' knowledge of HT, and with their beliefs and attitudes toward this violation of human rights. Study findings suggest that, generally, CBO/FBO leaders and staff in South Los Angeles have good knowledge about HT. However, notable gaps in knowledge and misperceptions remain, suggesting opportunities for Public Health to further educate and intervene.

Community-based Flu Outreach Clinics in South Los Angeles: Client Satisfaction and Experiences.

OBJECTIVE: This study sought to better understand and improve influenza vaccination in low-income populations regardless of their health insurance/immigration status. It assessed client satisfaction and experiences with services provided at community-based "flu outreach" clinics in South Los Angeles. The clinics represent a community-public agency partnership-a model of vaccine delivery that was relatively novel to the region. DESIGN AND SAMPLE: During 2011-2012, a self-administered questionnaire was distributed to clients of the local health department's 39 flu outreach clinics in South Los Angeles. MEASURES: The study utilized a 10-item satisfaction scale and survey questions that gauged client history and experiences with present and prior vaccinations. RESULTS: Of 4,497 adults who were eligible, 3,860 completed the survey (participation rate = 86%). More than 90% were satisfied with their experiences at the clinics. Younger adults were significantly more likely than adults aged 65+ to report not having been vaccinated in the previous year (p < .05). No statistical differences were observed by gender or race/ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS: High satisfaction with flu outreach services in South Los Angeles suggests that this model for vaccine delivery could lead to meaningful client experience of care. Local health departments could capitalize on this model to improve preventive services delivery for the underserved.