| Project Objectives / Summary:
In Australia, all major causes of death occur more frequently in males in the lower socio-economic population. This project developed a program to address this situation.
The aim of the project was to develop a proposal for multilevel intervention by GPs to address health inequalities, specifically in lower socio-economic status males.
Literature Review
A thorough review of the literature at an international, national and local level was conducted. The review addressed the empirical evidence for health inequalities as related to socio-economic inequalities; the empirical evidence attesting to gender inequalities in health; leading to the theoretical conclusions that men in the lower socio-economic population are a most disadvantaged group in terms of health outcomes. This was then supported by evidence at the State level, showing men in the lowest socio-economic sphere (SES) were more likely to be at risk of the major causes of death and that there were substantial differences in the life expectancy for males in the lowest SES compared to females at all levels of SES. Finally, information pertaining to SES factors and their association with health outcomes was identified in local government areas.
People and organisations
Various people and organisations were consulted regarding their expertise and / or experience in the fields of either socio-economic disadvantage and health or men's health. These ranged from local and interstate Divisions to community centres and associations. Likewise, relevant local seminars were attended to ensure the planned program was in line with current knowledge and directions, and the most up to date information included.
External advice was sought on performance monitoring and evaluation arrangements for the program.
Project Outcomes:Outcomes for the project included:
- A submission for additional funding to develop and trial the program over an eighteen month period;
- An awareness raising article in the North West Courier. The article reported on the findings that form the basis for the program especially relating to the North West Melbourne area; and
- A flyer produced as a resource for general practitioners, General Practices and Divisions of General Practice. The flyer provides suggestions for ways each of these organisations might address the health inequalities for socioeconomically disadvantaged males.
Recommendations:
The Division developed and submitted an Innovations Funding Application for the 1999 / 2000 Round of the Innovations Funding Pool; however, this application was unsuccessful.
Disseminating Project Information:
Publications:
Article for the North West Courier (North West Melbourne Division of General Practice's Newsletter)
A flyer was produced as a resource for GPs, general practices and Divisions of General Practice providing suggestions for ways each of these groups might address health inequalities for socio-economically disadvantaged males.
Lessons / Assessment:
This project was well conducted by the Division and demonstrates a professional approach to the issue. Despite the fact that its Round Two funding application was unsuccessful, this project represents a detailed approach to research as well as a practical approach as evidenced by the content and format of the flyer produced.
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