The information and planning needs of health visitors.

Rationale: The health visiting service is not planned on the basis of the health needs of the local population. Although relevant information is available it has not been made accessible for use. This study aims to: 1. Obtain baseline data regarding aims, planning methods, health goals and information needs of health visitors in selected practices in Sheffield. 2. Provide information concerning the health visitors' potential caseload and monitor its impact on the production of community profiles and identification of health goals. 3. Evaluate whether health visitors perceive positive change in their planning abilities and whether information provided meets their information needs. 4. Evaluate the social and political effects on the organisation of the health visiting service relating to the information provision. Nature. Scope and Method: An action research approach is used. The sample included, health visitors (N = 31) and their managers (N = 8), who were interviewed with an audiotaped interview schedule, piloted (N = 11). The health visitor sampled attended information workshops resulting in their building community profiles, negotiating practice with managers and producing an innovative method of planning. Workshop discussions and interview results were relayed back to all participants. The health visitor sample completed an evaluation questionnaire. Organisational changes during the research period were recorded. Contribution to knowledge: Community profiles can be used to assist community diagnosis relating the planning of the health visiting service to the health needs of the population. Profiles can fill information gaps existing in the service. Organisational changes to aid profile effectiveness include implementing, an information policy and system, appraisals, clear general policy statements, management training, and addressing a series of changes sought by health visitors. Alternative sources of funding for the service are suggested, as is grassroots representation in the planning process. The study provides an insight into the information and planning needs of health visitors in their organisational setting.