Intervene Effectively

These cases showcase Dr. Foldes’ experience with helping organizations to intervene effectively.  One example describes the use of economic analysis to influence public policy, while another illustrates work with diverse communities to change social norms concerning tobacco use.

Case #4:  Provide evidence to support policy initiatives

The company

  • A large Minnesota health plan assuming a leading role in advancing policy initiatives in tobacco control.

The challenge

  • Provide convincing policy research to help support advocacy for tobacco control legislation.

The solution

  • Dr. Foldes designed, led and published innovative research on the health care costs of smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.

The result

  • Lobbyists agreed that this economic research contributed to the passage of an increase in the Minnesota excise tax on cigarettes in 2005 and Minnesota’s Freedom to Breathe Act in 2007.

Case #5:  Engage diverse communities in prevention

The company

  • A major Minnesota health plan collaborating with the state’s leading tobacco control organization.

The challenge

  • Work collaboratively with the state’s major minority populations to demonstrably reduce tobacco use.

The solution

  • Dr. Foldes co-created and co-directed a six year, multi-million dollar community based participatory research and action project on tobacco use in Minnesota’s Latino, Southeast Asian and African-American communities.  The project involved community capacity building and developed successful culturally and linguistically competent interventions.  Measurement included qualitative and quantitative research (community reports in multiple languages and peer-reviewed publications summarize our learning and work and are available at http://preventionminnesota.com/doing_page.cfm?oid=6678.

The result

  • Awareness of the health risks of tobacco use increased and community organizations took action to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use.  The sponsoring organizations became widely recognized for their efforts in the participating communities.