Implementing Health Impact Assessment Programs in State Health Agencies: Lessons Learned From Pilot Programs,...

Area of Science:

• Public Health Policy
• Health Systems Strengthening
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is a crucial tool for integrating health into policy and decision-making.
• The effectiveness of HIA practice in the U.S. relies on developing practitioner capacity.
• State health agencies (SHAs) play a vital role in this capacity-building process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the role of SHAs in building HIA capacity.
• To determine key components of successful HIA initiatives and programs.
• To explore effective strategies for enhancing HIA capacity within SHAs and local health departments.

Main Methods:

• A review of program reports from pilot state health agencies (California, Minnesota, Oregon, Wisconsin) involved in HIA initiatives between 2009-2011.
• Analysis of shared themes regarding the role of SHAs, program characteristics, and capacity-building strategies.

Main Results:

• Successful HIA programs emphasize foundational, sustained infrastructure.
• Leveraging existing programs and networks is a key strategy for HIA growth.
• Collaboration with diverse stakeholders is essential for effective HIA practice.

Conclusions:

• SHAs are capable of both leading and supporting HIA development.
• Implementing strategies from pilot programs can help states establish comprehensive statewide HIA initiatives.
• Building capacity is fundamental for the successful integration of HIA into decision-making processes.