Intersectoral collaboration for physical activity in Korean Healthy Cities

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Promotion
• Urban Health

Background:

• Intersectoral collaboration (ISC) is vital for tackling multifaceted health determinants, yet it remains underachieved in practice.
• Physical activity promotion particularly benefits from a multi-sectoral approach, integrating efforts across various sectors.
• Understanding the characteristics and level of ISC in different urban settings is crucial for enhancing public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the characteristics and level of intersectoral collaboration in physical activity programs between Healthy Cities and non-Healthy Cities.
• To identify common collaboration partners and activities within physical activity programs.
• To provide recommendations for strengthening intersectoral collaboration in urban health promotion.

Main Methods:

• A postal survey was conducted among participants involved in physical activity programs.
• Data were collected from 24 participants in Healthy Cities and 72 in non-Healthy Cities.
• The survey assessed the level of ISC, including partners and types of collaborative activities.

Main Results:

• A high percentage of physical activity programs (85.5%) engaged in some form of collaboration.
• Healthy Cities demonstrated a higher prevalence of programs with one or more collaboration partners compared to non-Healthy Cities.
• No significant statistical differences were found in the level of ISC within municipal organizations between the two city types; support activities were primarily administrative.

Conclusions:

• While Healthy Cities show greater engagement in intersectoral partnerships for physical activity, the depth of collaboration within organizations needs enhancement.
• Strengthening ISC requires supportive policies, dedicated resources, financial incentives, and organizational recognition.
• Developing strategic partnerships with urban planning, transport, design, and communication sectors is essential for effective urban health promotion.