Which option is a mutual aid organization rather than a formal health program?

Which option is a mutual aid organization rather than a formal health program?

• A. Community-wide nutrition program at fast-food establishments
• B. A program to immunize persons exposed to infectious disease with immunoglobulin G within two weeks of exposure
• C. Alcoholics Anonymous
• D. An exercise program for persons who have had a stroke

Answer: (C)

Mutual-aid groups are voluntary, peer-led networks where individuals support one another in coping with health challenges, without being delivered as formal health services by the system. Alcoholics Anonymous fits this model: it is a self-help group run by and for participants, relying on shared experiences and mutual support rather than professional treatment or clinician-led care. It does not provide medical interventions or preventive services, but offers a space for members to encourage sobriety and accountability. The other options reflect formal health programs or clinical interventions. A community-wide nutrition initiative at fast-food venues is a coordinated public-health program with organizational structure and funding. Immunization with immunoglobulin G after exposure is a medical treatment provided by health professionals. An exercise program for stroke survivors is a rehabilitation activity typically supervised by clinicians or trained staff.

Mutual-aid groups are voluntary, peer-led networks where individuals support one another in coping with health challenges, without being delivered as formal health services by the system. Alcoholics Anonymous fits this model: it is a self-help group run by and for participants, relying on shared experiences and mutual support rather than professional treatment or clinician-led care. It does not provide medical interventions or preventive services, but offers a space for members to encourage sobriety and accountability.

The other options reflect formal health programs or clinical interventions. A community-wide nutrition initiative at fast-food venues is a coordinated public-health program with organizational structure and funding. Immunization with immunoglobulin G after exposure is a medical treatment provided by health professionals. An exercise program for stroke survivors is a rehabilitation activity typically supervised by clinicians or trained staff.