Abstract

How GIS and Assessments Can Make Faith Communities More Effective
Track: Public Health
Authors: Timothy Gillespie, Biblia Kim, James Martinez, Jane Pfeifer

Developing faith and health partnerships are key for improving community health. Geographic Information Systems was integrated into assessments conducted with congregants, public/private agencies, and residents around a local house of worship. Results helped design public health-related services targeting residents in the 1-mile radius around the church, regardless of affiliation. Geographic determinants were essential to understanding stakeholders’ perceptions of the community’s health needs.