Dissemination Audiences for SDOH Programs

Rural communities may need to disseminate a range of information about social determinants of health (SDOH) and related programs to various audiences. For example, funders may need information about program outcomes to support sustainability, while community partners may need information about services to support community engagement and buy-in. In addition, programs addressing multiple SDOH may need to engage a broad audience across different health and human services sectors.

For rural SDOH programs, it is essential to understand the dynamics of the communities in which the program intends to share information, resources, and results. For example, it may be important to find a local champion who can help share information about and build support for the program.

Key audiences for disseminating information specific to rural SDOH programs may include:

Community members and the general public
State and local health departments
Local policymakers
Local advocacy organizations
Community-based organizations
Business owners
Faith-based organizations
Regional and community planning organizations
State and local government agencies, such as Departments of Transportation, Housing, and Agriculture
State Offices of Rural Health
Healthcare organizations and healthcare providers
Schools, including universities and Extension programs
Foundations

For a general list of key audiences for disseminating information about rural health programs, see Methods of Dissemination in the Rural Community Health Toolkit.

Rural SDOH programs also emphasize the importance of building community partnerships and connecting with local champions and community leaders as keys to program success. These community leaders may be part of groups such as:

Elected local government officials
Civic organizations
Local businesses
School boards and parent-teacher groups
Healthcare organizations
Faith-based organizations
Local media