MAPPing Residents' Perceptions of Health-Related Quality of Life and Community Needs in Southwest Virginia: An Exploratory Study

摘要

Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative study was to uncover the perceptions of health-related quality of life (HRQL) in relation to community characteristics among rural residents of six areas in Southwest Virginia (N = 90). Furthermore, the aim of the current study was to determine how various community characteristics (e.g., safety, access to health services) may impact residents' perception of HRQL. Methods: Utilizing an exploratory study approach, one of four assessments – the Community Themes and Strengths Assessment (CTSA) – of the health needs assessment tool, 'Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships' (MAPP), was implemented to provide insight into challenges and opportunities in the community. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were the main source of data collection. Coding was performed via Atlas.ti, a qualitative data analysis software. Findings: Interviewees perceived a largely positive HRQL (e.g., ample green space, safe neighborhoods, good school system), with an urgent need for health care reform, affordable insurance premiums and co-payments, and transportation, particularly for after-hours medical care. Conclusions: The present study provides insight to the perceptions of HRQL and community characteristics among residents residing in six separate rural communities within one health district (New River Valley, Virginia). The findings suggest that community residents still perceive a good HRQL in their community, despite evidence of crime, lack of transportation, and inaccessible health care services. Lessons learned are also provided to help maximize community residents' HRQL. Keywords: health-related quality of life; community health; health assessment; rural health, qualitative research