Enacting HPHC

This is an area where OHO is putting considerable effort to compile a series of programs, policies and research that may be easily distributed to community groups around the globe. The principles of HPHC can ultimately only be of real and lasting benefit if practical measures for implimenting them are clearly defined. If this is an area that you are experienced in and would like to offer your assistance please contact: enquiries@onehealthorganisation.org

In order to begin to enact the principles of HPHC the following three questions may be asked prior to any initiative that is either aimed at increasing health, or could possibly have health care implications whilst we expand this vital area of our service:

1.	What are the overall long and short term risks of the action and does a safer alternative exist? Broader social, economic and ecological implications must be taken into consideration at the outset if long term health problems are to be avoided. This is the time for the big picture approach, and a cradle to grave / seventh generation analysis. NB: This also applies to actions that are known to be safe and harmless to the individual, as the broader global implications of that action could outweigh the local immediate effect.
2.	Who else should / could we consult in making this decision? This question ensures both a multi-sectoral approach and genuine community involvement in all health care initiatives and related actions. Even if the answer appears self evident, it is important to consider this in order to end the current trend towards narrow over specialization, lack of cooperation and poor communication.
3.	How can we work ‘with’ this situation, rather than on it? By seeking the economy of small interventions several important things are achieved: a) the individual, community or system is invariably encouraged towards self reliance, and a dissemination of knowledge results, b) more sustainable outcomes are usually produced, c) unforeseen and unwanted co-effects are miminised, d) prevention and promotion are highlighted.

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