THE LAY HEALTH ADVISER MODEL IN THEORY AND PRACTICE - AN EXAMPLE OF AN AGENCY-BASED PROGRAM

This article looks at the effects of implementing an agency-based program for pregnant women based on a lay health advisor model of change. Qualitative methods were used to examine the type of social support provided, level of change targeted, and organizational influence on the program. Results show that the program focused most intensely on the individual change component of the model, with limited attention to effecting change at the network, organizational, or community level. Findings point to the importance of understanding the theoretical concepts and planning strategies of the lay health advisor model when such programs are designed and implemented.