Determinants of the coproduction of public health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods study of students behaviors on a university campus

This article explores the effectiveness of coproduction and co-delivery in public health, specifically in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic on a university campus. We investigate the types of cooperation between students and their university (a government entity) to promote and maintain public health during the pandemic, focusing on people's willingness to engage in coproduction activities and the effectiveness of these measures in reducing virus transmission. The study examines college students' behaviors and attitudes toward public health measures like masks, social distancing, and vaccinations. Our goal is to generate knowledge about coproduction's potential in supporting public health efforts in an institutional and congregant living setting during future emergencies. Evaluating observational and survey data from Oregon, the study finds that students were more likely than the general public to participate in coproduction activities. It also highlights the unique challenges and opportunities for coproduction on college campuses. The article concludes by guiding future university administrators on effective communication channels to enhance responses during future pandemics.