NEEDS ASSESSMENT & FEASIBILITY STUDIES
Needs assessment and feasibility studies are critical first steps in program development. The potential for success of any program is greatest when there is both perceived need and adequate financial support for the program. BRS can provide in social, educational, health, and market assessment. BRS can also bring its extensive consumer awareness and experience to bear when conducting feasibility studies prior to embarking on a new program.
PROJECTS
West Texas HIV Planning Area/Planned Parenthood HIV/AIDS Needs Assessment (2005)
Planned Parenthood Center of El Paso
1801 Wyoming Ave. Suite 203
El Paso, TX 79902
(915) 533-8621
Planned Parenthood of El Paso contracted with BRS to carry out a needs assessment for the HIV/AIDS population in El Paso. BRS conducted focus groups in which HIV/AIDS clients and caregivers were asked to provide their opinions and concerns regarding knowledge and use of services, access to medical services, housing availability, and caregivers’ support. To further assess the needs of this population, BRS adapted the SCSN/HRSA Needs Assessment Survey to the HIV/AIDS demographic in El Paso, and surveyed the target population to determine medical, housing, and service provider needs. The survey was conducted in English and Spanish. Results of this assessment will be used to improve medical, social, and housing services to people living with HIV/AIDS in the El Paso area.
New Mexico Department of Health (2005)
Tom Ruiz, Environmental Specialist
Center for Border Health
New Mexico Department of Health
1170 N. Solano Suite L
Las Cruces, NM 88001
(505) 528-5152
A needs assessment regarding threats posed by chemical and agricultural industries was conducted for the communities of Mesquite and Vado, New Mexico. Information on all known industrial and agricultural facilities was collected from New Mexico’s environmental bureaus and web research of Environmental Protection Agency. Various stakeholders were also interviewed regarding the environmental conditions of these two towns, including community members, legislators, school representatives, and health clinic representatives. A report for each community included a demographic description of the area, a detailed compilation of industries, and their permit and violation status, community concerns, a review of systems framework, and finally, recommendations addressing environmental concerns. The final report served to inform environmental specialists as to the main concerns posed by industries in each community, and suggest avenues to begin addressing these concerns.
Region XIX Education Service Center, Head Start Program: Community Needs Assessment (1999/2000)
Blanca Enriquez, Head Start Director
11670 Chito Samaniego, El Paso, TX 79936
(915) 701- 4610
BRS conducted an assessment of current and future needs for Head Start services within each of the Region XIX Catchment areas. This included developing a profile of each area to include population age, income, and educational level; future development trends; handicap requirements, etc.
El Paso Health Management Education Consortium, Community Health Needs Assessment (1994)
This study assessed the health status of the population of El Paso County. The study also highlighted critical health issues facing consumers and providers alike. The report produced baseline data and indicators that could be measured and monitored over time to assess improvements in the health status of El Pasoans.