Method

Table of Contents

Introduction
Method
Analysis
Results
Discussion
Directions for Future Research

This study used multiple methods of data collection: semistructured telephone interviews with key informants from selected coalitions, surveys of asthma coalitions, analysis of presentation notes. The data collection instruments were reviewed by the ACCP’s CHEST Foundation and NAEPP prior to distribution.

Surveys

A survey of all the asthma coalitions (N=63) was conducted in February 2000 with follow-up during March 2000. The survey instrument was a self-administered questionnaire addressing the following areas:

• Descriptive information (e.g., year established, tax status, name, contact information)
• Membership information (number of members, composition of membership)
• Scope of coalition
• Target population
• Funding information (type of funding, annual budget)
• Staffing information
• Membership recruitment strategies
• Organizational structure
• Services/interventions provided by coalition
• Primary goals
• Major accomplishments
• Major challenges

In addition, coalitions were asked to respond to a series of statements adapted from a number of case study questions and study factors used by Kegler et al (1998) in their analysis of local community-based tobacco control coalitions. This section addressed several coalition factors specified in the literature as being associated with coalition effectiveness, major factors that facilitate implementation, factors important in coalition functioning and success, and key determinants in members’ satisfaction and participation (Parker et al,1998; Butterfoss et al 1996; Kegler et al, 1998).

Coalitions were identified through two sources: NAEPP December 1999 listing of asthma coalitions and ACCP’s 1999 Asthma Coalition Symposium participant mailing list. Surveys were mailed to contact person(s) listed for each coalition. Seventy-seven surveys were mailed to a total of 63 coalitions. Reminders to return the survey were sent via e-mail and fax to those coalitions not returning a survey. A total of 33 surveys were received for a 52% return rate.

Interviews

Ten semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with key informants from selected coalitions. Interview guides containing open-ended questions were developed for the interview. The interviews ranged from 30 minutes to 1 hour in length. The primary purpose of the interview was to provide additional information and to discover what lessons were learned on particular items such as organizational structure, start-up issues, planning process, communication, sustainability, and funding. The coalitions that were interviewed were selected based on their responses on the survey to questions of scope, funding level, year established, and organizational structure.

Presentation Field Notes

Notes taken during the presentations done by coalitions participating in the 1999 Asthma Coalition Symposium were reviewed to identify key concepts related to the study. These concepts included primary activities/interventions, financial resources generated, services provided, linkages with other organizations, leadership, orientation, organizational structure, and lessons learned.

3300 Dundee Road • Northbrook, Illinois 60062-2348 • (847) 498-1400 • (800) 343-2227
Copyright ©1999-2009 American College of Chest Physicians. All Rights Reserved.
ACCP Privacy Policy | ACCP Web Site Terms of Use