Alliance for Reproductive Health Rights (ARHR)’s Post

I was delighted to see the editorial in the BMJ about social participation in health systems (co-written by a colleague of mine Amanda Bok). This follows on from the WHO's resolution on the topic. The inclusion of the users of a health system in developing its structure & policies is gaining momentum. For too long, we (the users of these systems) have been excluded from their development, and improvement. There have been arguments about bias, but this exists for the management for the management of these systems too. Their jobs depend on these organisations. However, as users, we do not benefit from inefficiency, nor do we have better health as a results of marginal therapies. As users, we want the very best, not the barely adequate. Now things should change, as governments have resolved to do better. I just hope this is not aspirational, with no commitment to change. To ensure change, there must be accountability. It will also require the institutions of the state to work in harmony, not excluding those who use the system most. For example, in Ireland, people in receipt of Invalidity Pension are not permitted to use their knowledge to improve these systems and policies, we can only shout from the sidelines (like I am doing now). There is also the matter of financial remuneration of the users involved. Some state organisations (like the Health Service Executive in Ireland) do not offer compensation, or even expenses. This excludes whole groups of people, ensuring only the voices of those with independent financial means are included. There must be an adequate budget in place for inclusion. Having a healthy nation is expensive, but it is even more expensive if the population is ill. I am looking forward to seeing what will happen now, will there be milestones, so we can see tangible progress? If this does happen, we will all have a better quality of life, and our achievements will grow. Anne Rabbitte T.D. Bernard Gloster Simon Harris Roderic O'Gorman Anne Lawlor Derick Mitchell Derek Stewart, OBE Patients for Patient Safety Ireland Marie Ennis-O'Connor Edel Murphy Mandy Daly Nuala Ryan Siobhan Freeney Sorcha Boyle Orlagh McHugh Margaret Graham McDonald BSc (Hons) Tech Barry McGrath, PhD, EUPATI Fellow Richelle Flanagan Ann Twomey Pauline O'Shea Trishna Bharadia, BA(hons), MFPM(Hon) Dominic S. Seth Rotberg, MNM

Please read the below editorial from the upcoming patient led issue of the BMJ to find out more about the landmark WHO resolution on social participation for health. "If people are empowered to fully partner in health, the resources, intelligence, and capacities of our health systems will exponentially increase." https://lnkd.in/eUMTYcCz

Overnight, The World Health Assembly meeting (#WHA77) adopted the resolution: “Social participation for universal health coverage, health and well-being.” https://lnkd.in/euhKhcgh This resolution sends a very clear message at a global level of the importance of involving people in decision-making processes across all levels of health system and policy. We encourage you to look at the whole document (its only a few pages). As a teaser, we’re drawing your attention to 3 of the statements we think are key within this resolution, and encourage you to think about how Australia can deliver on them. (For example, is a revised National Statement on Community and Consumer Involvement in Health and Medical Research (currently open for submissions until 16 June) one avenue for supporting these ideas?): (PP9) Noting the WHO definition of social participation as empowering people, communities and civil society through inclusive participation in decision-making processes that affect health across the policy cycle and at all levels of the system (PP12) Recognizing that empowering people, communities and civil society for equitable, diverse and inclusive participation involves strengthening their capacities to meaningfully engage, financing their participation, valuing lived and living experiences, and addressing power imbalances in the design of the participatory space (PP14) Noting also that public policies and legislation may help to implement, fund and sustain social participation for health and well-being, promote transparency, and facilitate the inclusive, equitable and diverse representation of the population #WHA77 #socialparticipation #inclusion #diversity #health #healthsystem #policy #decisionmaking #meaningfulengagement #PPI

Social determinants shape health outcomes and inequities, necessitating multifaceted, collaborative policies and interventions to improve public health equity. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gnK9r_y5

https://lnkd.in/dvAErevW At the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly, Member States endorsed a resolution to implement, strengthen and sustain regular and meaningful social participation in decision-making processes for health. Social participation, as defined by WHO, means empowering people, communities and civil society through inclusive participation in decision-making processes that affect health across the policy cycle and at all levels of the system

Participation, especially social participation in healthcare is something I am talking about since years. I am talking about patient and citizen participation. The World Health Organization talks about social participation. What means the same. And I couldn't agree more with the news coming from the SEVENTY-SEVENTH WORLD HEALTH ASSEMBLY what happened in May. The resolution called: "Social participation for universal health coverage, health and well-being" is a great one and the WHO says in the Note for the press: "First-ever resolution on social participation for primary health care approved Member States have agreed on a resolution on social participation in national health planning and implementation, which paves the way for people, communities, and civil society to have a stronger voice in influencing the decisions that affect their health and well-being. The resolution aims to tackle health inequities and the erosion of trust in health systems, which is crucial in the face of the unprecedented challenges the world is facing such as climate change, conflicts, and pandemic threats. Growing evidence shows the transformative potential of social participation to foster trust in health systems, advance equity and align healthcare with people’s lived experiences. Two-way dialogues between government and the people they serve can lead to health policies, strategies and services that are more responsive to people’s needs, particularly those in vulnerable and marginalized situations. " This was highly appreciated many also from the patient communities. About the World Health Assembly: https://lnkd.in/emMJeWgy Finde the resolution here: https://lnkd.in/euhKhcgh #dslde #datasaveslives #datasaveslivesdeutschland #WHA77 #participation #gesundheitsdaten

Yesterday the World Health Assembly endorsed a resolution to implement, strengthen and sustain regular and meaningful social participation in decision-making processes for health. Social participation, as defined by WHO, means empowering people, communities and civil society through inclusive participation in decision-making processes that affect health across the policy cycle and at all levels of the system. The resolution acknowledges the instrumental role that social participation can have in fostering mutual respect and trust, while making health systems more responsive, equitable and resilient.

🌍 Navigating the Complexity of Social Determinants of Health: A Call for Clarity and Evolution 🌍 The concept of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) has illuminated our understanding of the multifaceted influences on health beyond the clinical setting. From where we are born, to the air we breathe and the education we receive, these determinants shape our health outcomes in profound ways. However, as we dive deeper into this crucial subject, a growing sense of complexity and ambiguity emerges. Recent discussions and analyses have shed light on the inherent challenges within the SDOH framework. Despite its groundbreaking insights, the SDOH model encounters hurdles in communication and practical application. The rapid expansion of determinants considered under this umbrella has, paradoxically, made it more difficult to convey its core messages and implement targeted, effective interventions. A critical point of reflection arises from the observation that many of these determinants are influenced significantly by broader "upstream" factors, particularly public policies. These foundational elements, often overlooked, play a pivotal role in shaping the "midstream" determinants traditionally emphasized within the SDOH framework. As we acknowledge these challenges, it has become clear that our journey towards understanding and addressing the social determinants of health is far from complete. The need for a more coherent, streamlined approach is evident—a framework that embraces the complexity of health determinants while offering clear, actionable paths forward. The evolution of our thinking and frameworks must reflect our commitment to broad positive health outcomes and our dedication to uncovering the most effective strategies for promoting health and well-being for all. As we continue to explore and refine our approaches, let us remain open to innovation and integration, ensuring that our efforts are as impactful as they are informed. Let's engage in this crucial dialogue, recognizing the need for evolution in our conceptualization of health determinants. Together, we can pave the way for more comprehensive, inclusive, and unbiased health outcomes. #PublicHealth #SDOH #HealthOutcomes #PolicyMaking #InnovationInHealth

It is vital to act now and drive forward work programmes that reduce inequalities, prevent poor health and improve people’s opportunities for better health. Integrating intergenerational approaches at a strategic level can play a crucial role in supporting these goals. By fostering connections and collaboration across generations, communities and sectors, we can leverage diverse perspectives and experiences to drive forward work programs aimed at reducing inequalities, preventing poor health, and enhancing opportunities for better health outcomes. The Royal Society for Public Health's report, 'The Unusual Suspects: Unlocking the Potential of the Wider Public Health Workforce,' highlights several key recommendations that align with the principles of intergenerational cooperation: Developing a cross-sector national strategy - If we incorporate insights from multiple generations, we can create strategies that address the needs and challenges faced by individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Resourcing and empowering the workforce - providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and knowledge exchange, we can harness the collective expertise of diverse professionals to maximise their impact on public health outcomes. Recognising contributions to public health - we need to highlight the valuable insights and experiences that individuals from different age groups bring to the table, we can elevate the status of the workforce and encourage greater engagement in public health initiatives. Facilitating development and recognition - it is important to establish transparent career progression routes and opportunities for professional development, we can attract and retain talent from diverse age groups, strengthening the workforce and enhancing its impact on public health outcomes. Intergenerational England Charlotte Miller