Participation in Hawaii-BRFSS

Perhaps you or someone you know has been called by our survey contractor, SMS Research & Marketing Services, Inc. If you received a call from 808-537-3356, on behalf of the Hawaii Department of Health and CDC, asking you to answer some questions about your health and health practices, this is a legitimate phone call. Please consider participating in the survey.

How are potential respondents selected?

Survey participants are randomly selected from houses across Hawaii with listed and unlisted landline telephone numbers, as well as cell phone numbers. Participants must be at least 18 years old and live in Hawaii.

When is the interview conducted?

Interviews are conducted throughout the year, from noon to 9 pm on weekdays, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on Saturdays, and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays.

How long does the survey take?

The survey takes about 25 minutes to complete. If you do not have time to complete the survey when contacted, the interviewer will arrange to call you back at a more convenient time.

What type of information is collected?

The survey collects information on health and health-related behaviors, such as access to health care, tobacco use, and chronic conditions (e.g. heart disease and diabetes). Demographic information is also collected, including age, sex, race, and ethnicity.

Will my personal information be recorded and shared?

We do not ask for or collect any personally identifiable information, such as your name and address. The information you provide is strictly confidential and cannot be traced back to you.

Why are my responses important?

The information collected through this survey is used to inform public health programs, determine the range of health outcomes, and evaluate public health policies and programs across the state. By participating in the Hawaii-BRFSS, you are providing critical information about your health and the health of our communities. When you are selected to participate in the Hawaii-BRFSS, you ensure representation for yourself and for others like you.