A theoretical analysis of professionalism in health promotion with a focus on the Swiss context

Abstract

The pressing global health crises highlight the need for professional health promotion (HP). Debates on the professionalization of HP are still overlaid by questions regarding the conceptualization of HP, yet literature is scarce regarding this point. Therefore, this article aims to (a) provide an overview of the current state of professionalism in HP with a focus on the Swiss context, and (b) identify facilitators, gaps and barriers of professionalism in HP. By investigating these aims, we contribute to specifying the conceptualization of the specialist HP professional profile. To analyse professionalism in HP, we examined individual and institutional aspects of sociological theories on professions. We selected seven aspects as a theoretical foundation for the analysis: (1) specific knowledge base, (2) specific field of action, (3) specific education, (4) professional association, (5) specific competencies, (6) professional identity, and (7) professional practice. Analysing each aspect of professionalism in HP, we see a clear progression within the last decades internationally as well as in Switzerland. The development of a Core Competency Framework – the CompHP – is a milestone in the professionalization of HP. Some major gaps and barriers are identifiable, which should be proactively faced by the specialist HP professionals. To further flourish as HP professionals, a unity regarding contents and levels of education needs to be discussed. Therefore, an investment in professional identity formation of the specialist HP workforce is likely to promote their engagement, competencies and shared values, which are essential promotors of professionalism in HP.