Small area analysis on a large scale--the California experience in mapping teenage birth "hot spots" for resource allocation
Taylor, D.; Chavez, G.
Journal of Public Health Management and Practice Jphmp 8(2): 33-45
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 1078-4659 PMID: 11889850 DOI: 10.1097/00124784-200203000-00005Document Number: 244919
Small-area analysis has become an important tool in the effective targeting of limited public health resources. In California, new funding for teenage pregnancy prevention programs required more and better information to justify the allocation of these funds to areas with the greatest need. Consequently, these funds were allocated using maps with census tract analyses of teenage birth rates and an overlay of geographic frequencies. State and local agencies' programs have responded with positive feedback to the maps, and public health management subsequently has augmented funding for mapping equipment and training. The lessons learned and future directions are discussed.