What is the purpose of a health impact assessment?
The purpose of a health impact assessment is to evaluate the potential health effects of a project or policy before it is implemented, aiming to protect and promote public health by identifying risks and providing recommendations to mitigate negative impacts or enhance positive health outcomes.
How is a health impact assessment conducted?
A health impact assessment (HIA) is conducted through a systematic process involving screening to identify projects needing HIA, scoping to determine potential health impacts, evaluating potential impacts using data, assessing possible health outcomes, developing recommendations to minimize negative effects, reporting findings to stakeholders, and monitoring and evaluating the actual impacts.
What are the benefits of conducting a health impact assessment?
Conducting a health impact assessment provides insights into the potential health effects of a policy, project, or plan, enabling informed decision-making. It promotes positive health outcomes, reduces health disparities, and engages stakeholders in addressing health determinants, ultimately leading to improved public health and wellbeing.
Who is typically involved in the health impact assessment process?
Typically, the health impact assessment process involves public health professionals, policymakers, community stakeholders, researchers, and sometimes representatives from government agencies and private organizations.
What types of projects typically require a health impact assessment?
Projects typically requiring a health impact assessment include urban development initiatives, transportation infrastructure projects, industrial facilities, environmental policies, and resource management plans. These projects may significantly impact public health through environmental changes, resource use, or socio-economic factors.