Health in All Policies Technical Assistance

Health in All Policies is a collaborative approach to improving the health of all people by incorporating health considerations into decision-making across sectors and policy areas.

The health of communities is greatly affected by policies and practices not only in the public health and health care arenas but across diverse areas. These areas include housing, land-use and planning, transportation, public safety, education, economic and community development, environmental protection, and more. Such policies and practices shape the environment and the conditions in which communities live, work, learn, and play, which impacts health, well-being, and indirectly influences individual health-related behaviors.

“Health in All Policies” is a collaborative approach to improving community health by incorporating health considerations into decision-making across sectors and policy areas. The goal of Health in All Policies (HiAP) is to ensure policymakers are informed about the health, equity, and sustainability of various policies during the policy development process. Considering all components of health impacts can help maximize health benefits and minimize negative consequences.

IPHI provides technical assistance to local and state governments. The City of Richmond, Virginia contacted IPHI to develop and assist with the adoption of a Health in All Policies Resolution in February 2015. IPHI worked with a team of departmental leaders to implement the HiAP framework across all departments, agencies, and offices. As part of this technical assistance, IPHI Vice President Mike Royster co-facilitated a two-day workshop for leaders. The workshop introduced participants to HiAP concepts, key definitions, explored how HiAP relates to and can support the city’s strategic plan. Participants also focused on poverty reduction and practiced using a health equity impact (HEI) tool to consider the health and equity implications of the city’s revitalization plans.

For more information on Health in All Policies and IPHI’s related technical assistance program, contact info@old.institutephi.org.