Program Description

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has funded the APEP to target all people with arthritis. [For this program, arthritis means diagnosed arthritis, symptoms of arthritis, or chronic joint symptoms.] By targeting this group, prevention strategies are secondary and tertiary. The overall program goal would be to increase the quality of life among persons with arthritis. This emphasis in no way negates the importance of primary prevention of arthritis, but rather acknowledges that at this initial stage of our program, resources would best be spent addressing the needs of persons already experiencing the pain and disability associated with arthritis. It is here that the CDC feels that the most significant and immediate impact can be made.

---Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2000

Implications

If successful, would increase early diagnosis and appropriate management among person with arthritis; and increase self-management attitudes and behaviors among people with arthritis; and ultimately, decrease their pain and disability and improve their quality of life. The strategies used by states will vary. Collectively, however, these strategies must improve:

• Awareness of the signs, symptoms, and management options of/for arthritis
• Awareness of the need for early diagnosis and appropriate management
• Inclusion of self management as part of routine medical care of arthritis
• Participation in self management programs

The Oklahoma APEP will be an integral part of the OSDH health promotion and surveillance activities.

 

Program Highlights

 

OAN Highlights, 1999-2007

 

Oklahoma Arthritis Action Plan

 

Oklahoma Arthritis Action Plan Logic Model

 

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