Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What implementation mechanism would best increase participation in a free health screening program?

1. Small interacting groups

2. Health policy

3. Lay advisors

4. Mass media

The correct answer is: Mass media

The most effective implementation mechanism to increase participation in a free health screening program is the use of mass media. This approach leverages various channels such as television, radio, social media, and print advertising to reach a broad audience efficiently. By disseminating information widely, mass media can increase awareness of the health screening program, highlight its benefits, and encourage people to participate. Mass media can also provide reminders and updates about the program, helping to combat misinformation and enhance public interest. The visibility and reach of mass media make it particularly valuable in engaging diverse populations and overcoming barriers to participation, such as lack of knowledge or misconceptions about the screenings. While small interacting groups can foster engagement through personal interaction, and health policy could facilitate the availability of resources or funding, these methods typically have a more limited reach compared to the broad impact of mass media campaigns. Lay advisors can provide grassroots support and encourage participation, but they may not have the same capacity to inform large numbers of individuals as mass media does.