# Assessing the ECHO® model's role in strengthening health department responses to dementia risk

## TL;DR

A program called ECHO helped public health professionals learn more about reducing dementia risk, leading to increased confidence and plans to apply new knowledge.

## Contribution

The adaptation and evaluation of the ECHO model for dementia risk reduction training in public health professionals is novel.

## Key findings

- Participants showed increased recognition of dementia risk reduction as a public health issue.
- 70% of participants planned to implement what they learned within 30 days.
- The ECHO model improved knowledge and confidence in dementia risk reduction strategies.

## Abstract

The Alzheimer's and Dementia Care ECHO Program was adapted for Public Health Professionals and a pilot was conducted among professionals from state and local health departments in Tennessee. The series aimed to increase knowledge, confidence, and public health action around dementia risk reduction across six virtual sessions, which featured a brief presentation followed by a case discussion.

The evaluation sought to understand the ECHO's impact on public health professional practice and knowledge change regarding dementia risk reduction using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected through pre and post-series surveys, surveys following each session, and focus groups.

Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the ECHO series, increased recognition of dementia risk reduction as a public health issue, and increased knowledge and confidence about reducing dementia risk. Overall, 70% of respondents said they would implement something they learned immediately or in the next 30 days. Increased recognition of and confidence to implement dementia risk reduction strategies can lead to improved health outcomes and more proactive measures being integrated into public health strategies.