Physicians as community health advocates - bridging the gap between clinical practice and the community

Chronic diseases are the most common and costly of all health problems. Tobacco and alcohol use, poor nutrition and limited physical activity, are responsible for the majority of the illness, disability, and premature death related to chronic diseases. Nearly 1 in 2 adults live with at least one chronic illness putting a tremendous strain on the public health system and on physicians who are expected to prevent as well as treat diseases. Addressing the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases requires a comprehensive approach and collaboration between all aspects of the health care system. This approach includes public education and screenings, policy initiatives and clinical interventions. The AMA developed its Physicians as Community Health Advocates (PACHA) initiative as part of its commitment to improving health outcomes and to help physicians help their patients through community engagement. Physicians have a role to play in addressing the barriers their patients face when trying to make healthier lifestyle choices. PACHA uses the train-the-train model to train physicians serve as community health leaders. These leaders develop skills and identify opportunities in their communities to assist public health advocates in implementing legislative, system and regulatory policies to improve health behaviors. This session takes participants through the development of PACHA and the feedback from two training sessions. It outlines the steps needed to provide for better connectivity between health education and policy. This information will help public health professionals understand how to partner with physicians on policy activities and on how to connect physicians with resources in the public health system.