One of the primary goals of health departments is educating the public on a wide range of health topics. Despite the fact that rates of teen pregnancy in North Carolina are declining, education about contraceptives and STI prevention remains an important priority at the Buncombe County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Not only is it essential for health education materials to have current and accurate information, but also attention to overall design and aesthetic quality is crucial. The goal of this public service project was to revise health communication materials disseminated to clients at the BC DHHS. The process included revising and pretesting a pamphlet focusing on teen sexual health and the DHHS’ same-day birth control campaign, a pap testing brochure, and a family planning welcome letter, as well as conducting an article search to determine the best communication materials for emergency contraception. All materials were pretested with DHHS client groups while they waited for their appointments. This project helps ensure that some of the most heavily distributed materials at the DHHS will effectively promote their services and clearly communicate their main messages. Ideally, these improvements will help clients better understand certain DHHS examination and related services and will help promote a healthier community.
