Public Health Training Series In this session on public health advocacy, we discuss the important role of advocacy in public health - that is, advocacy for health policies (e.g., organizational policies as well as health and safety regulations or laws) and environmental change (changes in the economic, physical, or social environment that can improve the public's health). An overview of the public health advocacy process is presented and advocacy strategies such as using the media to advance policy (as opposed to the traditional use of the media to deliver health messages), using data strategically, identifying and working with allies, dealing with the opposition, and community organizing are discussed. Advocacy "pointers" are offered and the role of implementation and evaluation in advocacy are also presented. In a group exercise participants identify a needed public health policy, consider potential barriers to change, and apply appropriate advocacy strategies. |
