Designing a Community Engaged Training Program for African American and Latinx Communities on COVID-19 in South Mississippi: Results from Qualitative Focus Groups Exploring Community Member Perceptions

Susan Mayfield-Johnson; Tanya Funchess; Charkarra Anderson-Lewis; Erica Thompson; Sandra Melvin; Mireya Alexander; Kierra Melvin; Samaria Lowe

Susan Mayfield-Johnson The University of Southern Mississippi
Tanya Funchess The University of Southern Mississippi
Charkarra Anderson-Lewis The University of Southern Mississippi
Erica Thompson Magnolia Medical Foundation
Sandra Melvin Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health
Mireya Alexander Magnolia Medical Foundation
Kierra Melvin Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health
Samaria Lowe The University of Southern Mississippi

Keywords: COVID-19, health disparities, Mississippi, African American, Latinx, focus groups

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore attitudes and perceptions on COVID awareness and education among African American and Latinx community members and stakeholders in South Mississippi through qualitative methods. Design: Virtual focus groups were conducted in Forrest, Hancock, Harrison, Hinds, and Jackson Counties through Zoom meetings. Community residents and stakeholders (N=56 total) participated. Zoom meetings were audio and video recorded, transcribed, and analyzed utilizing thematic analysis. A demographic survey was also administered. Results: Knowledge about COVID 19, vaccines, attitudes towards and beliefs about preventing COVID-19, intentions to prevent COVID-19, information seeking on COVID-19 preventative behaviors, and impact of COVID were identified as themes. Conclusion: Themes identified were consistent with other underserved areas in the South and provided key topics for development of Community Health Advisor training session curriculum.

Author Biographies

Susan Mayfield-Johnson, The University of Southern Mississippi

School of Health Professions, Associate Professor

Tanya Funchess, The University of Southern Mississippi

School of Health Professions, Assistant Professor

Charkarra Anderson-Lewis, The University of Southern Mississippi

School of Health Professions, Professor

Erica Thompson, Magnolia Medical Foundation

Chief Executive Officer

Sandra Melvin, Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health

Chief Executive Officer

Mireya Alexander , Magnolia Medical Foundation

Program Manager

Kierra Melvin, Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health

Community Outreach Specialist

Samaria Lowe, The University of Southern Mississippi

School of Health Professions, Graduate Assistant