Community Health Decision-Making: The Power of Focus Groups in Rural Communities

This study isolates the extent of influence primary and secondary data have on determining prioritized community health needs in rural communities. Specifically, it looks at the extent of influence qualitative data have on the decision-making process. To understand the determinants of decision making, significant health needs as identified in 16 community health needs assessments, which used the same mixed methods research design, were aggregated and analyzed. Findings show that health concerns stemming from qualitative sources were more likely to be selected as a significant need, particularly from focus groups. The findings highlight the importance of focus groups as vehicles for community empowerment and engagement. Implications for healthcare research design include the need to provide more outlets for community input, especially in rural settings.