TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF STATE HEALTH SERVICES NUTRITION, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND OBESITY PROGRAM EVALUATION

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to develop an implementation and evaluation plan for the "Strategic Plan for Obesity Prevention in Texas, 2012-2021." This includes an assessment of current partnerships between the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and organizations, coalitions, and community groups involved in obesity prevention in Texas. Methods: A database of current stakeholders by public health region and stakeholder type will be created and new partners will be sought out based on gaps in representation. An online survey will be administered, assessing obesity prevention strategic areas of focus among partners, prior partnership with the DSHS, and types of obesity prevention activities organizations would be willing to partner on with DSHS. Results: A database with 527 potential partners representing 218 organizations involved in obesity prevention in Texas has been compiled. A survey instrument has been developed and is in the process of being pilot tested. Conclusions: The development of an implementation and evaluation plan for obesity prevention efforts in Texas will lead to modification and improvement of DSHS activities related to obesity prevention and lead to the establishment of new partnerships and collaborative work to reduce the prevalence of obesity and associated chronic diseases in Texas.