The Role of Health Authorities in the Promotion of Health

Incorporating socio‐political health promotion activities in clinical practice

“…Here health promotion remains a peripheral and low‐status activity in comparison with technology‐based biomedical treatment interventions (MacDonald, 1998). Adams (2001) confirms that less than 1% of the UK's National Health Service (NHS) budget is spent on health promotion strategies. Where health promotion resources are targeted in the NHS, they are primarily aimed at those who are already ill. Harrison (1999) argues that those who are excluded because they are not ill will almost certainly become ill, due to the lack of preventative resources being offered elsewhere.…”

“…Consequently, Adams (2001) argues that all clinicians need to develop broad policy analysis skills so that they can further understand social, economic and environmental theory. Lobbying at various levels of health policy‐making constitutes a good start and would give nursing a greater voice in determining its own health promotion/health policy agenda (Whitehead, 2000a).…”

“…In the UK, hospital trusts now require staff to plan care in partnership with a range of stakeholders including community groups and politicians, in order to bring about organizational and political change (Adams, 2001). This activity represents an integral part of the socio‐political health promotional role for both community and institution.…”