request for proposal addendum research, evaluation, and

Angeline F. Johnson, CEO Community Connections Consulting Services (C3S), LLC

7130 W. Maple St., Ste. 230 #183 Wichita, KS 67209

316-444-6767 (main) / 316-500-3626 (fax) [email protected]

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL ADDENDUM

Research, Evaluation, and Quality Improvement Partner

for #FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT Communication and Outreach Initiative:

Providing Health Literacy and Resources to Promote Informed Decision-Making

August 20, 2021

The revised timeline for the RFP is provided below:

RFP Released August 16, 2021 Deadline for Questions by 5:00pm CST August 20, 2021 Addenda (if any) issued by August 20, 2021 Sealed Proposals by 3:00pm CDT September 22, 2021 Evaluation Period September 23-24, 2021 Interviews (if deemed necessary) September 27-28, 2021 Contract Negotiations Complete TBD MoU Approval TBD

Adjustments to RFP Language: The language regarding submittal deadlines was updated on the cover page. The date was changed to September 22. The Evaluation Criteria, in Section V, Part B, was updated. Request for Proposal Timeline, in Section V, Part C, was updated to reflect the new timeline. The Required Response Content, Section VI, was updated to require the inclusion of a draft Evaluation Plan in the submittal. The organization chart under Attachment D was updated to include the placement of a Data Analyst and the Research/Quality Improvement/Evaluation Manager within the organization. Attachment E, Health Literacy Resources, was updated to include a link to the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Advancing Health Literacy grant.

Released By: Community Connections Consulting Services, LLC #FactsNotFear/#FactNotFearICT RFP - 8/20/2021

mailto:[email protected]

RFP Questions: 1. The submission deadline is not feasible for our institution.

The submission deadline has been adjusted to allow for respondents to submit a thorough proposal. The deadline has been extended to September 22, 2021.

2. Should our response include any of the attachments included in the RFP? Or are these examples of the work

that is expected to be completed by the selected firm? Attachments A and B, the Draft Disparity Impact Statement and the Health Literacy Plan Guidance and Suggested Template, are to provide respondents context for writing a proposal. Attachment C, the Evaluation Plan Guidance and Suggested Template, will inform the work performed by the selected firm in order to comply with grant requirements. Respondents do not need to submit any of the attachments with the proposal.

3. As a part of the evaluation plan, do you anticipate the selected firm would be responsible for data collection

and recruitment of participants? Or you do anticipate they would assist with this process (if so to what degree)? Or will data collection and recruitment be completed by the project staff and/or board, with the selected firm being responsible for analysis of data collected? The selected firm will design the evaluation plan and work with project staff and community health partners to select outcome metrics. The selected firm will provide third-party oversight to the data collection, in compliance with grant requirements, and complete data analysis.

Each vendor is required to acknowledge receipt of this Addendum by his signature affixed hereto and to file same with and attached to this proposal.




The undersigned acknowledges receipt of this Addendum and the proposal submitted herewith is in accordance with the information, instruction and stipulations set forth herein. Date Company Name Signature of Company Representative Print Name of Company Representative Title



REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

(UPDATED 8/20/2021)

Research, Evaluation, and Quality Improvement Partner for

#FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT Communication and Outreach Initiative: Providing Health Literacy and Resources to Promote Informed Decision-Making

August 20, 2021 Community Connection Consulting Service, Inc. (C3S), (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Project Administrator”) on behalf of and in partnership with the City of Wichita, Kansas (City) is seeking qualified proposers to provide research, project improvement, and evaluation services for the above listed project. If your firm is interested in submitting a response, please do so in accordance with the instructions contained within this Request for Proposal. SUBMITTALS are due NO LATER THAN 3:00 pm Wednesday, September 22, 2021.

Angeline F. Johnson, CEO

Community Connections Consulting Services (C3S), LLC 7130 W. Maple St., Ste. 230 #183

Wichita, KS 67209 316-444-6767 (main) / 316-500-3626 (fax)

[email protected]



Table of Contents

I. About this Document

II. Project Background and Objectives

III. Submittals

IV. Scope of Work

V. Proposal Terms

A. Questions and Contact Information B. Evaluation Criteria C. Request for Proposal Timeline D. Contract Period and Payment Terms

VI. Required Response Content VII. Response Form

VIII. Attachments


I. About this Document This document is a Request for Proposal. It differs from a Request for Bid or Quotation in that the Project Administrator is seeking a solution, as described on the cover page and in the following Project Background section, not a bid or quotation meeting firm specifications for the lowest price. As such, the lowest price proposed will not guarantee an award recommendation. As indicated herein, Competitive Sealed Proposals will be evaluated based upon criteria formulated around the most important features of the product(s) and/or service(s), of which quality, testing, references, service, availability or capability, may be overriding factors, and price may not be determinative in the issuance of a contract or award. The proposal evaluation criteria should be viewed as standards that measure how well a vendor’s approach meets the desired requirements and needs of the Project Administrator. Criteria that will be used and considered in evaluation for award are set forth in this document. The Project Administrator will thoroughly review all proposals received. The Project Administrator will also utilize its best judgment when determining whether to schedule a pre-proposal conference, before proposals are accepted, or meetings with vendors, after receipt of all proposals. A Purchase Order/Contract will be awarded to a qualified vendor(s) submitting the best proposal. The Project Administrator reserves the right to select, and subsequently recommend for award, the proposed service(s) and/or product(s) which best meets its required needs, quality levels and budget constraints. The nature of this work is for a public entity and will require the expenditure of public funds and/or use of public facilities, therefore the successful proposer will understand that portions (potentially all) of their proposal may become public record at any time after receipt of proposals. Proposal responses, purchase orders and final contracts are subject to public disclosure after award. All confidential or proprietary information should be clearly denoted in proposal responses and responders should understand this information will be considered prior to release, however no guarantee is made that information will be withheld from public view. ***Acknowledgement of Federal Assistance*** This project is supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)/Office of Minority Health as part of a financial assistance award totaling $4,000,000.00 with 100 percent funded by OASH/HHS. The contents herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by OASH/HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit http://[email protected]. II. Project Background and Objectives “The Advancing Health Literacy to Enhance Equitable Community Responses to COVID-19” (Opportunity Number: MP-CPI-21-006), has been established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Minority Health (OMH). The program seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of local government implementation of evidence-based health literacy strategies that are culturally appropriate to enhance COVID-19 testing, contact tracing and/or other mitigation measures (e.g., public health prevention practices and vaccination) in racial and ethnic minority populations and other socially vulnerable populations, including racial and ethnic minority rural communities. OMH expects the awardee projects to demonstrate the effectiveness of working with local community-based organizations to develop health literacy plans to increase the availability, acceptability, and use of COVID-19 public health information and services by racial and ethnic minority populations. Recipients are also expected to leverage local data to identify racial and ethnic minority populations at the highest risk for health disparities and low health literacy, as well as populations not currently reached through existing public health campaigns. (Source: https://www.minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/Content.aspx?ID=22541&lvl=1&lvlid=5) In the Spring 2021, on behalf of and in partnership with Community Connection Consulting Services, Inc. (C3S) as the proposed grant Subrecipient and Project Administrator, the City of Wichita (City) submitted to HHS OMH a proposal entitled “#FactsNotFear Communication and Outreach Initiative: Providing Health Literacy and Resources to Promote Informed Decision-Making” (later renamed “#FactsNotFearICT Communication and Outreach Initiative: Providing Health Literacy and Resources to Promote Informed Decision-Making”). In June of 2021 the submitted proposal was one of 73 governmental institutions selected to be a part of a new, two-year initiative to identify and implement best practices for improving health literacy to enhance COVID-19 vaccination and other mitigation practices among underserved populations. (Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USOPHSOMH/bulletins/2e4da9a?reqfrom)


http://[email protected]/

To carry out the quality improvement and project evaluation responsibilities of this grant, C3S is seeking a research partner who will be committed to ensuring the creation, execution, monitoring, and reporting of the #FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT project in a manner that will meet the expectations of OMH. ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUNDS City Manager’s Office, City of Wichita – Grant Awardee: The City of Wichita is a leading-edge organization serving a dynamic and inclusive community. As an exceptionally well-run city, we will keep Wichita safe, grow our economy, build dependable infrastructure, and provide conditions for living well. “The Advancing Health Literacy to Enhance Equitable Community Responses to COVID-19” (Opportunity Number: MP-CPI-21-006) was awarded to the City Manager’s Office. The City Manager's Office has responsibilities for all matters involving the City of Wichita. Responsiveness to citizens is one of the most prominent responsibilities. Another key duty of the Manager’s Office is assisting the Council with special projects, such as the #FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT project and other valuable research assignments. Community Connections Consulting Services, LLC – Project Administrator: Community Connections Consulting Services, LLC (C3S) is a Wichita-based consulting firm that provides one-on-one support to governmental, nonprofit, and for-profit entities whose mission align with making a marked difference in urban communities throughout the United States. The mission of C3S is to provide high-level professional expertise and implementation guidance to support the earnest efforts of governmental, nonprofit, and for-profit entities working to improve the quality of life for individuals, children, and families. Our Community Development Consultants contract with both governmental entities, nonprofit organizations, as well as for profits to assist in the development and implementation of programs, projects, and initiatives to support a variety of community development efforts. Through our leadership training and advocacy arm, known as "The Leadership Think Tank" (TLT2), C3S consultants assist local community leaders in creating an amplified voice to address critical social issues that are negatively impacting communities such as the #FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT project. III. Submittals

Carefully review this Request for Proposal. It provides specific technical information necessary to aid participating firms in formulating a thorough response. Should you elect to participate, submit one (1) electronic copy (PDF or Word) on a flash drive or via a download link with any supplementary materials to:




SUBMITTALS are due NO LATER THAN 3:00 pm Wednesday, September 22, 2021. IV. Scope of Work

Statement of Need Located in Sedgwick County, Kansas, the City of Wichita boasts a population of 389,938. As noted in Image 1, in 2019 it was estimated that Whites accounted for 74.3% of the population. Black/African Americans represented 10.9% of the city’s population. Hispanic/Latino community members represented 17.2% of the population. Asians were 5.1% of the population. Native Americans made up 1% of city’s population.


http://www.cccsconsulting.com/


https://theleadershipthinktank.com/


Image 2 highlights the devastating impact of COVID-19 on residents within the City of Wichita. It was documented that in spite of those who self-identified as White alone comprising nearly three-quarters of the city’s total population, it was Wichita’s minority residents that were more likely to be hospitalized or to die from complications related to COVID-19. Wichita, Kansas is not only the largest city in Sedgwick County, but is also the largest city in the State of Kansas. When considering the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) county maps, as shown in Image 3, for Sedgwick County’s 124 total census tracts, the SVI is at 0.4916 which designates the county as having a low to moderate level of vulnerability. However, there are 48 census tracts within Sedgwick County that qualify as being ranked 4th in the SVI scale. And when the focus is placed on the location of those census tracts, it can be noted that there is a geographic concentration of Sedgwick County’s most vulnerable residents as noted in the Image 4. As visualized in the maps contained in Image 3 and Image 4, the vast majority of the most vulnerable children, adults, seniors, and families in Sedgwick County are physically concentrated within the City of Wichita proper.

Specifically, of Sedgwick County’s 48 4th SVI eligible census tracts, 46 of them are located within the city limits of Wichita. This means when considering the SVI four summary theme rankings of 1) Socioeconomic Status, 2) Household Composition/Disability, 3) Race/Ethnicity/Language, and 4) Housing Type/Transportation, as identified on the Sedgwick County map, census tracts located within the City of Wichita hold 95.8% of the most vulnerable children, adults, seniors, and families in all of Sedgwick County.

Proposed Approach In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic sent shockwaves throughout the world. While many Americans found themselves inundated with information being shared by the media and medical professionals, minority communities searched for familial voices that looked like them in community leaders, medical professionals, and news coverage. In October 2020, the Wichita Black Alliance in partnership with key organizations and community leaders, were awarded CARES Act dollars to engaged in a targeted and focused effort to helped to ensure that members of the Black community living in Sedgwick County received pertinent COVID-19 information and access to community supports to be safe and


https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/placeandhealth/svi/documentation/SVI_documentation_2018.html

http://www.wichitablackalliance.com/

protected during the pandemic. The campaign included TV and radio commercials, geo-fencing through digital ads, billboards, print advertisement and flyers, yard signs, free mask distribution events, social media marketing and a series of virtual Town Hall meetings that included mental and physical health professionals. Additional efforts were tied to addressing the mental health needs of the community, as well as building community partnerships through coordinated efforts to increased support for basic needs, such as access to food, to fight increased levels of food insecurity due to the financial implications experienced by the devastating impact of COVID-19 on individual and family livelihoods. At the conclusion of the Wichita Black Alliance’s campaign, which ended December 2020, a survey was conducted. Of those surveyed, 82.7% shared that it was important to them that visual images included African Americans living in Sedgwick County in materials that were created and distributed. 86.3% shared that it was important to them that there were images of Black doctors, nurses, and therapists in the communication efforts. Of those surveyed, 94.1% say there is a need for the Wichita Black Alliance to continue its messaging and to expand its communication as vaccinations become accessible. This coalition of community advocates has continued to engage in their work to support Wichita’s Black Community. And, because as a city we are aware that are other minority communities that could also benefit from this type of communication and outreach campaign, the City of Wichita, Community Connections Consulting Services, LLC, and Mamarazzi Communications have mobilized and partnered to take the successful effort of the Wichita Black Alliance and both scale and expand it as a blueprint for other minority communities in Wichita to save even more lives. Through this collaborative effort, we will provide communication training and assist in the development of COVID-19 education materials for the African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American communities throughout Wichita. #FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT leadership will work closely with a point of contact/committee group of community leaders in the African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American communities to collectively engage and empower impactful efforts to social distancing, mask wearing, COVID-19 testing, and vaccinations. This effort will collaborate and partner with local community and health organizations that also engaged in COVID-19 related efforts for the purpose of deepening the impact of all efforts in Wichita. #FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT will also connect community members to viable information and resources for testing/vaccination sites, aid for food and housing, and mental health services in a culturally relevant and sensitive manner that will resonate within African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American communities. Project Requirements – Research/Quality Improvement/Evaluation OMH expects grant awardees to: Use the quality improvement processes to refine the health literacy interventions that support improvements in the disparities identified in the disparity impact statement. Engage in project evaluation to determine whether the health literacy intervention was implemented as planned, whether it reached the target population described in the Disparity Impact Statement, and whether there were any changes in the access, use and outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and related activities (e.g., contact tracing, preventive behaviors).

• Provide periodic project data stratified by demographic characteristics, on changes in the access, use and outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and related activities (e.g., contact tracing, preventive behaviors) and project data related to the Healthy People 2030 objectives HC/HIT-01, HC/HIT-02, HC/HIT-03 and IID-D02.

• Provide guidance and technical support in the creation of the following statements and plans:

o Disparity Impact Statement (DIS) (Attachment A): Relationship to Evaluation: The disparity impact

statement will provide the framework for ongoing monitoring and determining the impact of the health literacy interventions on adherence to COVID-19 public health recommendations. Additionally, the DIS identifies the racial and ethnic minority populations at highest risk for health disparities, low health literacy and not being engaged or reached through existing public health messages and approaches for promoting COVID-19 public health recommendations.

o Health Literacy Plan (Attachment B): Relationship to Evaluation: The health literacy plan, that incorporates the National CLAS Standards, to increase the availability, acceptability and use of COVID-19 public health


information and services by racial and ethnic minority populations and others considered vulnerable for not receiving and using COVID-19 public health information.

• Creation and execution of the following mandatory plan:

o Evaluation Plan: As described in the AHL NOFO, all AHL project evaluations should determine whether:

The health literacy intervention(s) was implemented in adherence with the National CLAS Standards. The health literacy intervention(s) reached its target population described in the Disparity Impact

Statement. There were any changes in access, use and outcomes of program activities, especially COVID-19

testing, contact tracing, vaccination.

This plan should follow the attached template (Attachment C) to assist AHL awardees with the following:

Evaluation Approach – to document specifics of the project evaluation approach. Outcomes and Performance Metrics - to provide periodic project data stratified by demographic

characteristics, on changes in: the access, use and outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and related activities (e.g., contact tracing, preventive behaviors) and project data related to the Healthy People 2030 objectives HC/HIT-01, HC/HIT-02, HC/HIT-03 and IID-D02.

Please review the additional attachments included with this document:

• Attachment A – Draft Disparity Impact Statement (DIS) • Attachment B – Health Literacy Plan Guidance & Suggested Template • Attachment C – Evaluation Plan Guidance & Suggested Template • Attachment D – Project Organizational Chart (Updated) • Attachment E – Health Literacy Resources

V. Proposal Terms

A. Questions and Contact Information

Angeline F. Johnson, CEO Community Connections Consulting Services, LLC 7130 W. Maple St., Ste. 230 #183 Wichita, KS 67209 316-444-6767 (main) / 316-500-3626 (fax) [email protected] www.cccsconsulting.com www.theleadershipthinktank.com

B. Evaluation Criteria The selection process will be based on the responses to this RFP. A review committee will judge each response as determined by the scoring criteria below.

Component Points Methodology in meeting Scope of Work requirements 35 Meeting all Proposal requirements and instructions, submitting clear, detailed information and providing all requested documentation.

30

Proven successful projects comparable in size/scope. 10 Overall cost of services 10 Emerging Business Enterprise/Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Participation

10




http://www.theleadershipthinktank.com/

Quality of references 5 Total Points 100

Any final negotiations for services, terms and conditions will be based, in part, on the firm’s method of providing the service and the fee schedule achieved through discussions and agreement with the review committee. The Project Administrator is under no obligation to accept the lowest priced proposal and reserves the right to further negotiate services and costs that are proposed. The Project Administrator also reserves the sole right to recommend for award the proposal and plan that it deems to be in its best interest.

All costs incurred in the preparation of this proposal shall be the responsibility of the firm making the proposals. The Project Administrator reserves the right to select, and subsequently recommend for award, the proposed service which best meets its required needs, quality levels and budget constraints.

At the discretion of the Project Administrator and/or the selection committee, firms submitting proposals may be requested to make an oral presentation as part of the evaluation process. During this process, the Project Administrator may request additional information or clarifications from proposers or allow corrections of errors or omissions. Submission of a proposal indicates acceptance by the firm of the conditions contained in the RFP and agreement to enter into a contract. The Project Administrator reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals submitted and to retain all proposals or any ideas submitted in a proposal, regardless of whether a proposal is selected. C. Request for Proposal Timeline The following dates are provided for information purposes and are subject to change without notice. Contact Community Connections Consulting Services, LLC at (316) 444-6767 to confirm any and all dates.

Date Distribution of Request for Proposal to interested parties August 16, 2021 Questions Due August 18, 2021 Addendum Issued August 20, 2021 Sealed Proposal due before 3:00pm CDT September 22, 2021 Evaluation Period September 23-24, 2021 Interviews (if deemed as necessary) September 27-28, 2021 Contract Negotiations TBD MoU Approval TBD

D. Contract Period and Payment Terms A contractual period (Memorandum of Understanding) will begin following appropriate approval of the successful firm(s) through June 30, 2023. Specific project details (Statement of Work, Milestones, etc.) will be negotiated prior to execution of contract, once goals as outlined are met and parties mutually agree that terms have been satisfied, the contract shall be complete.

Either party may cancel its obligations herein upon thirty-day (30) prior written notice to the other party. It is understood that funding may cease or be reduced at any time, and in the event that adequate funds are not available to meet the obligations hereunder, the Project Administrator reserves the right to terminate this agreement upon thirty (30) days prior written notice to the contracted party. Payment will be remitted following receipt of detailed invoice.


VI. Required Response Content

Submissions that do not meet the format criteria specified below MAY be disqualified as non-responsive.

All proposal submissions shall include the following, clearly labeled/tabbed as indicated below:

1. Firm profile: the name of the firm, address, telephone number(s), contact person, year the firm was established, and the names of the principals of the firm.

2. The names of the staff members who will be available for work on the contract, including a listing of their work experience.

3. The firm’s relevant experience, notably experience working with government agencies. 4. At minimum, three (3) professional references, besides the City of Wichita, with email addresses, telephone numbers,

and contact persons where work has been completed within the last three years. 5. A THOROUGHLY ORGANIZED response to Section IV. Inclusive of an a) Scope of Work that provides a

detailed approach to the project as discussed within the section and b) submission of a draft “#FactsNotFearICT Evaluation Plan” modeled after “Attachment C – Evaluation Plan Guidance & Suggested Template” conveying how your firm would frame the evaluation of the project.

6. Timeline of work to be completed. 7. Complete pricing information.


VII. Response Form REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

#FactNotFearICT – 836844-1001 Research and Evaluation Partner

for #FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT Communication and Outreach Initiative: Providing Health Literacy and

Resources to Promote Informed Decision-Making The undersigned, on behalf of the proposer, certifies that: (1) this offer is made without previous understanding, agreement or connection with any person, firm, or corporation submitting a proposal on the same project; (2) is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud; (3) the person whose signature appears below is legally empowered to bind the firm in whose name the proposer is entered; (4) they have read the complete Request for Proposal and understands all provisions; (5) if accepted by the Project Administrator , this proposal is guaranteed as written and amended and will be implemented as stated; and (6) mistakes in writing of the submitted proposal will be their responsibility. NAME_______________________________________________________________________________

DBA/SAME__________________________________________________________________________

CONTACT___________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS____________________________CITY/STATE________________________ZIP________

PHONE_____________________________________FAX__________________HOURS____________

STATE OF INCORPORATION or ORGANIZATION ____________________________________ COMPANY WEBSITE

ADDRESS______________________EMAIL__________________________________

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS___________NUMBER OF PERSONS EMPLOYED_______________________

TYPE OF ORGANIZATION: Public Corporation ______ Private Corporation______ Sole Proprietorship _____

Partnership_____ Other (Describe): _________________

BUSINESS MODEL: Small Business _____ Manufacturer _____ Distributor ______ Retail ________

Dealer _____ Other (Describe): ______________________________________________________________

Not a Minority-Owned Business: ____ Minority-Owned Business: ____ (Specify Below)

__African American ___ Asian Pacific ___ Subcontinent Asian ___ Hispanic __Native American

Other - Please specify____________________________

Not a Woman-Owned Business: ____ Woman-Owned Business: ____ (Specify Below)

__Not Minority -Woman Owned __ African American-Woman Owned

__Asian Pacific-Woman Owned__Subcontinent Asian-Woman Owned __Hispanic Woman Owned

__Native American-Woman Owned __Other – Woman Owned – Please specify___________________

ARE YOU REGISTERED TO DO BUSINESS IN THE STATE OF KS: ______Yes ______No

ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF ADDENDA: All addenda are posted to our RFQ/RFP web page and it is the vendor’s responsibility to check and confirm all addendum(s) related to this document by going to:

https://cccsconsulting.com/factsnotfearict In submitting a proposal, vendor acknowledges all requirements, terms, conditions, and sections of this document. Proposal submission format should be by order in which sections are listed throughout the document. All minimum and general requirements should be specifically addressed and detailed in proposer’s response. Exceptions to any part of this document should be clearly delineated and detailed. Signature______________________________________ Title___________________________________ Print Name______________________________________ Dated ______________________________


https://cccsconsulting.com/factsnotfearict

VIII. Attachments

Attachment A – Draft Disparity Impact Statement


DISPARITY IMPACT STATEMENT

#FactsNotFearICT - City of Wichita (Kansas)

Grant #: 1 CPIMP211300-01-00

Grantee Name: City of Wichita

Project Title: #FactsNotFear Communication and Outreach Initiative: Providing Health

Literacy and Resources to Promote Informed Decision-Making

Project Period: July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2023

Project Director: Donte Martin, Assistant City Manager, City of Wichita

Date of Submittal: 8/6/2021

Please Note

This is a “DRAFT” version of our statement.

It is our request to submit an updated DIS once our evaluator is secured and they have had the

opportunity to review and update (if necessary) the document.


The #FactsNotFearICT initiative was

established to advance health literacy

within the City of Wichita’s minority

communities. Located in Sedgwick

County, Kansas, the City of Wichita

boasts a population of 389,938.i In

2019 it was estimated that Whites

accounted for 74.3% of the population.

Black/African Americans represented

10.9% of the city’s population.

Hispanic/Latino community members

represented 17.2% of the population.

Asians were 5.1% of the population.

Native Americans made up 1% of city’s

population.

As the devastating impact of COVID-19

on residents within the City of Wichita was captured, it was documented that in spite of those who

self-identified as White alone comprising nearly three-quarters of the city’s total population, it was

Wichita’s minority residents that were more likely to be hospitalized or to die from complications

related to COVID-19.

There are several determinants that contribute to the disproportionate number of minorities within

the City of Wichita who are exposed, made ill, hospitalized, or die as a result of COVID-19. Local

factors include disparate neighborhood and physical environments, poor health and lack of

access to quality healthcare, occupation and job conditions, lower incomes and wealth gaps, as

well as lower rates of higher-level educational attainment. Minority Wichitans are more likely to

lack access to affordable quality housing, affordable nutritious food, reliable transportation, and

quality health insurance. These residents are more likely to work essential jobs in healthcare, food

production, factories, grocery stores or public transportation that increase their likelihood of

exposure. Many of these responsibilities do not allow them to work from home or benefit from

paid leave. Other factors experienced by minority members of our community include an inability

to pay out-of-pocket for medical expenses or to access information, goods and services,

affordable testing, and mental healthcare. Underlying and pre-existing health conditions such as

Source: https://sedgwickcounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7b2b4364a5fa4ba3a015d52450acfe0d


https://sedgwickcounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7b2b4364a5fa4ba3a015d52450acfe0d

https://sedgwickcounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7b2b4364a5fa4ba3a015d52450acfe0d

diabetes and high blood pressure are also factors. Those who have pre-existing health conditions

are more likely to be hospitalized or to die from COVID-19. #FactsNotFearICT will address these

disparities and determinants as we provide health literacy to targeted residents who self-identify

as Black or African American, American Indian or Alaska,

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, and/or Hispanic or Latino.

In partnership with the to be selected Research/Quality Improvement/Evaluation Manager(s),

#FactsNotFearICT will create a Quality Improvement Plan that will allow for the continuous

monitoring of our local efforts to determine the project’s impact for the disparate population(s)

across three primary domains — access, use and outcomes. The City of Wichita and Community

Connections Consulting Services, LLC considers this comprehensive quality improvement plan

an integral part of the overall initiative. A Request for Proposals will be issued to engage a highly

qualified third party to develop an evidence-based methodology for assessing access, use,

adherence to national CLAS standards, and outcomes for the program. The Research/Quality

Improvement/Evaluation Manager(s) will also be performing the evaluation of the program to

assure a neutral assessment of the program.

i QuickFacts: U.S. Census Bureau, https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/wichitacitykansas/RHI825219#RHI825219, Accessed 8/1/2021


https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/wichitacitykansas/RHI825219#RHI825219

Attachment B – Health Literacy Plan Guidance & Suggested Template


Health Literacy Plan Guidance & Suggested Template

▪ Grant #:

▪ Grantee Name:

▪ Project Title:

▪ Project Period:

▪ Project Director:

▪ Date of Submittal:


Part 1. Purpose of the Health Literacy Plan This section is an overview that should be a description of the issue and why it is a worthwhile cause for your organization to be involved. Language from the National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy (https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Health_Literacy_Action_Plan.pdf) can be used for your issue overview as it is a public document and it goes into depth describing the issue of health literacy, the prevalence of health literacy, and innovative approaches to addressing health literacy.

Part 2. Statement of the Challenge(s): This section should include a statement of the challenges to health literacy and a response statement of how and where you want your health literacy efforts to be focused. Additionally, either a statement of commitment or a request for a commitment is critical in moving the plan into action.

Part 3. Identifying Advocates Partnership(s) with community-based organizations to support the development and implementation of the health literacy plan and sustainability plan.

• Champions:

• Allies:

• Workgroup Members:

• List partner(s) with MOUs:


https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Health_Literacy_Action_Plan.pdf


Part 4. Self-Assessment

Factor Opportunities for Health Literacy Improvement

[Enter opportunity for health literacy improvement]

Health Information (e.g., forms and factsheets)

Communications with Clients, Partners, and Community

Relationship with Media

Physical Environment

Program Development, Implementation, and Evaluation

Internal Communication and Policies

Other factors


Part 5. Consider Barriers & Solutions

Opportunity

[Enter an opportunity for health literacy improvement]

Potential Barriers

[Enter a potential barrier to the opportunity]

Potential Solutions

[Enter a potential solution to the opportunity]


Part 6. Recommended Conceptual Model

Use the initiative conceptual model as reference to develop your action plan. For example, the Europe Union Conceptual Model of Health Literacy (HLS-EU) measures four individual competencies (the ability to access, understand, appraise, and apply health information) across three domains: health care, disease prevention and health promotion.


Part 7. Developing Your Action Plan

• Issue Overview:

• Vision:

• Statement of Commitment:

• Existing Policies:

Goal #1: It is likely that in your self-assessment of your organizational practices, you uncovered some of the existing priorities that guide or create barriers for your approach to health information and services. Be sure to include those goals and priorities they could be strengthened in your plan. A summary of your assessment could also be useful to help set the framework for your plan.

Objective #1: For each goal you should have some objectives that help you determine how and if you reach your goals. Good objectives should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound. For examples:

o Weak Objective: Staff will receive health literacy training.

o Stronger Objective: By March 15, 100% of the staff will have completed the Health Literacy for Public Health Professionals training.

Strategy Action Step(s) Lead (By Who?) Timeframe (By When?)

Think carefully about what you want to accomplish as you begin to formulate your goals. Consider what success will look like in 1, 3 and 5 years and ensure the goals you develop will help you achieve that success. The National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy includes seven goals that may be helpful for you as you think about your organization’s goals.

While the objectives get you into more specifics than the goals, they don’t tell you how you will go about implementing the objective. Detailed action steps, indicating who will do what by when are vital to the success of each objective. Clarifying these action steps up front will help ensure that everyone is clear on their roles as the plan is finalized. In addition to action steps, you should also consider what resources and partners would be necessary to implement the actions and successfully achieve the objective.


Goal #2:

Objective #2:

Action Step(s): Strategy Lead (By Who?) Timeframe (By When?)

Goal #3:

Objective #3:

Action Step(s): Strategy Lead (By Who?) Timeframe (By When?)


Part 7. Next Steps

• What is your process to vet the plan?

• How you will gain endorsement from senior leadership?

• What are your opportunities to build awareness?

• What is your process for monitoring efforts?

• How you will implement the plan?

Part 8. Resources

• Create a Health Literacy Plan - resources to support organizations in developing a health literacy plan.

• Health Literacy Universal Precautions Toolkit, 2nd Edition -. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) toolkit to help primary care practices reduce the complexity of health care, increase patient understanding of health information, and enhance support for patients of all health literacy levels.


https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/planact/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/pdf/planning_template.pdf

https://www.ahrq.gov/health-literacy/improve/precautions/toolkit.html

Attachment C – Evaluation Plan Guidance & Suggested Template


Evaluation Plan Guidance & Suggested Template

▪ Grant #:

▪ Grantee Name:

▪ Project Title:

▪ Project Period:

▪ Project Director:

▪ Date of Submittal:


Part 1. Purpose of the Evaluation Plan As described in the AHL NOFO, all AHL project evaluations should determine whether:

1. The health literacy intervention(s) was implemented in adherence with the National CLAS Standards.

2. The health literacy intervention(s) reached its target population described in the Disparity Impact Statement.

3. There were any changes in access, use and outcomes of program activities, especially COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, vaccination.

This template is intended to assist AHL awardees with the following:

1. Evaluation Approach – to document specifics of the project evaluation approach.

2. Outcomes and Performance Metrics - to provide periodic project data stratified by demographic characteristics, on changes in: the access, use and outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and related activities (e.g., contact tracing, preventive behaviors) and project data related to the Healthy People 2030 objectives HC/HIT-01, HC/HIT-02, HC/HIT-03 and IID-D02.

Part 2. Introduction This section is an overview of the implementation activities (what the program and its staff do with the resources). AHL components needed to build successful evaluation approaches. AHL program components, partnerships, and documents that can be used to inform the evaluation approach, quality improvement process, and performance reporting include:

1. The Disparity Impact Statement (DIS): Relationship to Evaluation: The disparity impact statement will provide the framework for ongoing monitoring and determining the impact of the health literacy interventions on adherence to


COVID-19 public health recommendations. Additionally, the DIS identifies the racial and ethnic minority populations at highest risk for health disparities, low health literacy and not being engaged or reached through existing public health messages and approaches for promoting COVID-19 public health recommendations.

2. Health Literacy plan: Relationship to Evaluation: The health literacy plan, that incorporates the National CLAS Standards, to increase the availability, acceptability and use of COVID-19 public health information and services by racial and ethnic minority populations and others considered vulnerable for not receiving and using COVID-19 public health information.

3. Minority Serving Institutions and Community Partnerships: Relationship to Evaluation: OMH encourages awardees to partner with a Minority Serving Institution for evaluation and quality improvement processes. The quality improvement processes should be used to refine the health literacy interventions that support improvements in the disparities identified in the disparity impact statement.

General Tips for developing clear and concise logic models and evaluation plans

1. Identify key components of the selected health literacy interventions identified in the health literacy plan.

2. Align key components of the health literacy plan with the National CLAS Standards.

3. Align key components of the health literacy plan with relevant Healthy People objectives.

4. Identify priority evaluation questions to guide evaluation planning and design

Part 3. Logic Model Narrative

A logic model is a graphic depiction (road map) that presents the shared relationships among the resources, activities, outputs, and outcomes/impacts for your program. It depicts the relationship between your program’s activities and its intended effects, in an implicit ‘if-then’ relationship among the program elements — if I do this activity, then I expect this outcome. Among other things, a logic model helps clarify the boundary between ‘what’ the program is doing and ‘so what’—the changes that are intended to result from strong implementation of the “what.”


Part 4. Outcomes & Performance Measures Aligned with the initiative conceptual model, at the end of each quarter you should be able to report on the following:

1. AHL Conceptual Model Domain: Health Promotion

A. Outcome: ensure the identification of effective approaches for improving health outcomes with the ultimate goal of promoting dissemination, adoption and sustainability of these approaches.

INPUTS ACTIVITIES OUTPUTS OUTCOMES

The resources needed to implement the activities

What the program and its staff do with those resources

Tangible products, capacities, or deliverables that result from the activities

Changes that occur in other people or conditions because of the activities and outputs

IMPACTS

[Sometimes]

The most

distal/long-

term

outcomes

Contextual factors that are out of control of the program but may help or hinder achievement of the outcomes

MODERATORS


AHL NOFO Performance Measure Requirement: the specific evidence-based health literacy intervention(s) implemented

B. Outcome: reduce the differences in health that occur by particular categories: gender, race or ethnicity, income and education, disability, living in a rural locality, or sexual orientation with the target population in the Disparity Impact Statement.

AHL NOFO Performance Measure Requirement: the demographic characteristics of the populations reached through the evidence-based health literacy intervention and how the populations reached align with the target population in the Disparity Impact Statement.

2. AHL Conceptual Model Domain: Disease Prevention

A. Outcome: measure the impact on health outcomes, participation, empowerment, equity and sustainability.

AHL NOFO Performance Measure Requirement: current project data, stratified by demographic characteristics, on changes in the access, use and outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and related activities (e.g., contact tracing, preventive behaviors)

B. Outcome: improve health indicators align with Healthy People 2030 objectives HC/HIT-01, HC/HIT-02, HC/HIT-03 and IID-D02.

AHL NOFO Performance Measure Requirement: Current project data related to Healthy People 2030 objectives HC/HIT-01, HC/HIT-02, HC/HIT-03 and IID-D02.

3. AHL Conceptual Domain: Health Care

Outcome: improve access and utilization of health care.

AHL NOFO Performance Measure Requirement: the number of individuals impacted by the health literacy intervention.


Part 5. Evaluation Design - Table and Narrative

1. Describe the health literacy intervention(s) to be evaluated, include the key components of each, alignment with National CLAS standards considering the individual outcomes in each AHL conceptual domain (health promotion, disease prevention, health care).

2. Identify the stakeholders (e.g. population identified in the DIS, community organizations, health partners, etc.). 3. Identify the evaluation focus (e.g. how to improve health indicators align with Healthy People 2030 objectives HC/HIT-

01, HC/HIT-02, HC/HIT-03 and IID-D02, etc.) and key questions to be answered, including the ability to access, understand, appraise, and apply health information in each domain.

4. Use best practices or relevant literature to guide the evaluation plan.

Describe the evaluation strategy and expected outcomes, as related to HP 2030:

• Describe how data stratified by demographic characteristics will be used to advance HP 2030

• HC/HIT-01 Increase the proportion of adults whose health care provider checked their understanding;

• HC/HIT-02 Reduce the proportion of adults who report poor patient and provider communication;

• HC/HIT-03 Increase the proportion of adults whose health care providers involved them in decisions as much as they wanted;

• IID-D02: Increase the proportion of people with vaccination records in an information system.

Awardee propose metric: definitions, calculations, example calculation, frequency, performance target, exceptions and clarifications.

a. Identify models, methods or designs to support the evaluation

b. Measure the level of collaboration with stakeholders to confirm the selected approach to evaluation design.

• Design:

• Measures:

• Procedures:

• Analysis Plan:


Evaluation Plan – Recommended Table

Domain:

Performance Measure:

HP 2030 Objective (if applicable):

Goal # 1 Outcome Evaluation Question

Study Design Measurement Tool Frequency Performance Target

Domain:

Performance Measure:

HP 2030 Objective (if applicable):

Goal # 2 Outcome Evaluation Question

Study Design Measurement Tool Frequency Performance Target


Part 6. Dissemination Strategy

This section should include an overview of the dissemination strategy for the evaluation results.

Part 7. Appendices The appendices section should include supplemental information that provides further detail on your grantee-specific evaluation. Please include supporting documentation referenced in the Evaluation Plan or other documentation that is helpful for understanding how the evaluation was conducted and the results obtained. This section could include:

a. sample instruments as appropriate (questionnaires, interview guides, protocols)

b. psychometric characteristic of selected measures

c. the reliability of data collection instruments

d. plans for submission of proposed evaluation design to IRB(s)

e. confidentiality procedures


Attachment D – Project Organizational Chart


#FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT Project Organizational Chart

(Updated)

***Acknowledgement of Federal Assistance*** This project is supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)/Office of Minority Health as part of a financial assistance award totaling $4,000,000.00 with 100 percent funded by OASH/HHS. The contents herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by OASH/HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit http://[email protected].


http://[email protected]/

Attachment E – Health Literacy Resources


#FactsNotFear/#FactsNotFearICT Health Literacy Resources

As a national priority, health literacy is a recognized support for increasing participation in health care,

improving health outcomes and addressing health disparities. Health literacy requires a complex group of reading,

listening, analytical, and decision-making skills, as well as the ability to apply these skills to health situations.

Individuals with limited health literacy have reported poorer health status and were less likely to use

preventative care. (14) Beyond differences of language, culture gives significance to health information and messages.

Perceptions and definitions of health and illness, preferences, language and cultural barriers, care process barriers, and

stereotypes are all strongly influenced by culture and can have a great impact. (14)

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers a number of resources and tools to support

understanding and implementation of health literacy strategies, including the following:

Notice of Funding Opportunity

• Notice of Funding Opportunity

Health Literacy Plans

• Health Literacy Universal Precautions Toolkit, 2nd Edition -. Agency for Healthcare Research and

Quality (AHRQ) toolkit to help primary care practices reduce the complexity of health care, increase

patient understanding of health information, and enhance support for patients of all health literacy levels.

• Create a Health Literacy Plan - resources to support organizations in developing a health literacy plan.

• Health Literate Care Model - tool that incorporates health literacy principles to mitigate risks of

individuals not understanding health information.

Quality Improvement and Program Evaluation

• Framework for Program Evaluation - a description of the CDC's Framework for Program Evaluation and

possible sources of communication and health literacy measures.

• Healthy People 2030 Health Literacy Objectives - related to health communication and information

technology.

Interventions to Improve Health Literacy

• National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy - overarching guidance based on the principles that (1) everyone has the right to health information that helps them make informed decisions and (2) health services should be delivered in ways that are understandable and beneficial to health, longevity, and quality of life.

• AHRQ Teach-Back Intervention – AHRQ webpage for Teach-Back Intervention, a technique for health care providers to ensure that they have explained medical information clearly so that patients and their


https://cccsconsulting.com/rfp-factsnotfearict

https://www.ahrq.gov/health-literacy/improve/precautions/toolkit.html

https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/planact/index.html

https://health.gov/our-work/health-literacy/health-literate-care-model

https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/researchevaluate/program-evaluation.html

https://health.gov/healthypeople/about/workgroups/health-communication-and-health-information-technology-workgroup


https://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/quality-patient-safety/patient-family-engagement/pfeprimarycare/interventions/teach-back.html

families understand what is communicated to them. Includes materials to support adoption.

• The National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) in Health and Health Care - guidance for providing health care and services that are responsive to diverse cultural health beliefs and practices, preferred languages, health literacy and other communication needs.

Additional Resources and Tools

• Health Literacy Online - information to develop effective products for all users, including those with limited literacy or health literacy.

• Assess Health Literacy in Your Organization - General assessments tools to identify opportunities and barriers for planning purposes and making progress on health literacy.

• CDC Culture and Health Literacy Webpage – Webpage with overview of culture and communication, and

tools for organizations to support cross-cultural communication and language access. • HRSA Health Literacy Webpage - Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) health literacy

webpage with overview of patient health literacy and strategies for health care professionals. • AHRQ Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) and User’s Guide - An instrument to assess the

understandability and actionability of print and audiovisual patient education materials. • National Library of Medicine Health Literacy Webpage PlainLanguage.gov – government website of the Plain

Language Action and Information Network (PLAIN), a community of federal employees dedicated to the idea that citizens deserve clear communications from government. Includes information on laws and regulations, guidelines, examples, training and resources.

• Limited English Proficiency Resources - details related to providing access to information and services for

individuals who have difficulty communicating effectively in English. • The Guide to Providing Effective Communication and Language Assistance Services - information for

providing effective communication and language assistance services to culturally and linguistically diverse individuals receiving care and services, including strategies for communicating in a way that considers the cultural, health literacy, and language needs of your patients and their families.

• Improving Access to Services for Persons With Limited English Proficiency


https://thinkculturalhealth.hhs.gov/clas



https://health.gov/our-work/health-literacy

https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/researchevaluate/organization-assessment-tools.html

http://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/culture.html

https://www.hrsa.gov/about/organization/bureaus/ohe/health-literacy/index.html

https://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/prevention-chronic-care/improve/self-mgmt/pemat/index.html

https://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/prevention-chronic-care/improve/self-mgmt/pemat/index.html

http://nnlm.gov/outreach/consumer/hlthlit.html

https://plainlanguage.gov/resources/content-types/healthcare/

https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/special-topics/limited-english-proficiency/index.html

https://hclsig.thinkculturalhealth.hhs.gov/

https://www.lep.gov/sites/lep/files/resources/eolep.pdf

request for proposal addendum research, evaluation, and

Documents