Formative research to promote the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service (GHS) in the Australian-Chinese community.

The free, telephone-based Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service (GHS) has made sustained improvements in healthy behaviours and weight change in the Australian population, but there is poor uptake of the GHS by culturally and linguistically diverse communities. This formative research study explored the Australian-Chinese community's awareness, perceptions and experiences of the GHS and their knowledge and cultural beliefs about healthy lifestyles. Conducted in Sydney, Australia, the research included 16 Chinese community-stakeholder interviews, a cross-sectional survey of 253 Chinese community members; and a review of Chinese participant GHS data. The study revealed poor uptake (<1%) and awareness (16%) of the GHS, but good intent (86%) to use it. The need for culturally appropriate and relevant information on healthy eating and physical activity was identified. Employment of a bilingual, bicultural coach, redesign and translation of written resources and targeted promotion in partnership with community organisations were recommended.

The reach and flow of health information in two Aboriginal communities: a social network analysis.

The aim of the present paper was to explore how social networks enable dissemination of health information within two Aboriginal communities in New South Wales. The study design was modelled on a social network analysis socio-centric model. Data collection was conducted primarily by Aboriginal community members who were trained as community researchers. Participants reported on their patterns of interaction and who they provided or received health information from, and awareness of the Aboriginal Enhancement of the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service. In total, 122 participants across two sites participated in the study. Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) were cited as the main provider of health information in both sites. Between-ness, degree and closeness centrality showed that certain community members, ACCHS and ACCHO within the two communities in the present study were considerable enablers [actors] in enhancing the reach and flow of health information to their respective Aboriginal community. There is potential for future health-promotion activities to be increasingly targeted and effective in terms of reach and influence, if guided by local Aboriginal organisations and by key Aboriginal community members within and across family networks and communities.

Developing a new Get Healthy Service program on reducing risky alcohol consumption.

Risky alcohol use has significant individual health and social impacts, and is related to short- and long-term harm, including injuries, accidents, liver diseases, some cancers, cardiovascular diseases and alcohol dependence. The Get Healthy Information & Coaching Service (GHS) is a free telephone coaching service supporting adults 16 years or older to reduce weight, improve nutrition and increase physical activity. Tailored programs are available for Aboriginal people, pregnant women and people at risk of type 2 diabetes. The GHS provides an opportunity to implement a specific program for participants wishing to reduce or cease their alcohol consumption. This paper describes the processes used to develop an Alcohol Program for the GHS. It outlines the contributions from clinical and program experts, the evidence base for the program's development, clinical screening tools, training for health coaches and referral processes for participants. The Alcohol Program has the potential to provide effective coaching to adults to voluntarily reduce short- and long-term risky alcohol consumption.