TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2016//
TI  - A data-driven allocation tool for in-kind resources distributed by a state health department
JO  - Traffic injury prevention
A1  - Peterson, Cora
A1  - Kegler, Scott R.
A1  - Parker, Wende
A1  - Sullivan, David
SP  - 681
EP  - 685
VL  - 17
IS  - 7
N2  - OBJECTIVE: To leverage a state health department's operational data to allocate in-kind resources (children's car seats) to counties, with the proposition that need-based allocation could ultimately improve public health outcomes. <br><br>METHODS: Retrospective analysis of administrative data on car seats distributed to counties statewide by the Georgia Department of Public Health and development of a need-based allocation tool (presented as interactive supplemental digital content, adaptable to other types of in-kind public health resources) that relies on current county-level injury and sociodemographic data. <br><br>RESULTS: Car seat allocation using public health data and a need-based formula resulted in substantially different recommended allocations to individual counties compared with historic distribution. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that making an in-kind public health resource like car seats universally available results in a less equitable distribution of that resource compared to deliberate allocation according to public health need. Public health agencies can use local data to allocate in-kind resources consistent with health objectives; that is, in a manner offering the greatest potential health impact. Future analysis can determine whether the change to a more equitable allocation of resources is also more efficient, resulting in measurably improved public health outcomes.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 1538-9588
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15389588.2016.1142079
ID  - ref1
ER  -