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. 2017 Feb;40(1):23-38.
doi: 10.1007/s10865-016-9780-4. Epub 2016 Aug 10.

The ConNECT Framework: a model for advancing behavioral medicine science and practice to foster health equity

Kassandra I Alcaraz  1 , Jamilia Sly  2 , Kimlin Ashing  3 , Linda Fleisher  4 , Virginia Gil-Rivas  5 , Sabrina Ford  6 , Jean C Yi  7 , Qian Lu  8 , Cathy D Meade  9 , Usha Menon  10 , Clement K Gwede  9
Affiliations

The ConNECT Framework: a model for advancing behavioral medicine science and practice to foster health equity

Kassandra I Alcaraz et al. J Behav Med. 2017 Feb.

Abstract

Health disparities persist despite ongoing efforts. Given the United States' rapidly changing demography and socio-cultural diversity, a paradigm shift in behavioral medicine is needed to advance research and interventions focused on health equity. This paper introduces the ConNECT Framework as a model to link the sciences of behavioral medicine and health equity with the goal of achieving equitable health and outcomes in the twenty-first century. We first evaluate the state of health equity efforts in behavioral medicine science and identify key opportunities to advance the field. We then discuss and present actionable recommendations related to ConNECT's five broad and synergistic principles: (1) Integrating Context; (2) Fostering a Norm of Inclusion; (3) Ensuring Equitable Diffusion of Innovations; (4) Harnessing Communication Technology; and (5) Prioritizing Specialized Training. The framework holds significant promise for furthering health equity and ushering in a new and refreshing era of behavioral medicine science and practice.

Keywords: Behavioral science; ConNECT framework; Disparities; Dissemination; Diversity; Health equity.

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Conflict of interest statement

Kassandra I. Alcaraz, Jamilia Sly, Kimlin Ashing, Linda Fleisher, Virginia Gil-Rivas, Sabrina Ford, Jean C. Yi, Qian Lu, Cathy D. Meade, Usha Menon, and Clement K. Gwede declare that they do not have any conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The ConNECT Framework.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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