Community teaching proposal is detailed and comprehensive with supportive evidence and a detailed description of barriers and strategies to overcome barriers. Evidence from current literature and statistical / demographic data published on the community thoroughly supports the proposal in all required areas of the work plan.

PROPOSED COMMUNITY TEACHING When required, “the Amish are permitted to use modern health care facilities and services including surgery, hospitalization, anesthesia, blood transfusions, and dental work. However, distance, lack of transportation, and cost can serve as barriers to accessing the health care delivery system” (Julia, 1996, p.27). In contrast with modern American culture, health promotion and disease prevention are not priorities among the Amish. Accordingly, immunizations for communicable diseases are accepted, but only about 58% of Amish children have received such immunizations (Julia, 1996, p.32). Furthermore, Amish are generally reactive, rather than proactive, regarding healthcare.
Overall, health is highly valued in the Amish culture and they consider their bodies to be God’s temple. Nurses and other healthcare providers must develop open and trusting relationships with their Amish patients. This can start with a focus on family-centered care. Furthermore, the nurse needs knowledge of the Amish belief system and way of life to provide culturally sensitive care.
Using empowering strategies will help to make the Amish feel more comfortable in the modern healthcare environment. It is important to ask the patient and their family for their preferences whenever possible. “By showing personal interest in an Amish person, the nurse can enhance credibility by gaining the client’s trust and confidence” (Yoder, 1997, p. 51).

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL RATIONALE FOR TOPIC
When researching culture and health practices, one must