Creating structure and process change: Embedding health into government decision-making

Over time, a Health in All Policies approach creates permanent changes in how agencies relate to each other and how government decisions are made. This requires maintenance of both structures which can sustain intersectoral collaboration and mechanisms which can ensure a health and equity lens in decision-making processes across the whole of government. This can be thought of as “embedding” or “institutionalizing” Health in All Policies within existing or new structures and processes of government. Understanding how to embed health and equity considerations into government decision-making processes is essential for implementing a Health in All Policies approach.

Participants will engage in an interactive exercise designed to broaden  perspectives on the functions of and opportunities within government to embed health. Participants will also have the opportunity for small group discussion to identify opportunities within their own work to apply a Health in All Policies approach. The presenter will describe the importance of, and tools for embedding health and equity into government decision-making, policies, programs, and strategies. This will include a short overview of tools such health impact assessment and health lens analysis. Using California and other jurisdictions as examples, presenters will discuss how agencies are working together to improve guidance for decision-makers in a range of areas, such asland use and transportation planning, food procurement, and neighborhood design elements to improve community safety.