Description

A healthy communities approach breaks down silos and allows us to think about health and community in the broadest of terms through a social determinants lens. In order for communities to effect positive sustainable changes, a paradigm shift will be required where process is valued as highly as outcomes and communities have autonomy to determine their notion of health by engaging in systematic and deliberate planning processes. Healthy communities and healthy community processes are mutually reinforcing. Strong community processes lead to improved community health. In turn, the vibrancy and health of the community further builds the capacity of the community to engage in healthy planning. For communities struggling to achieve health, the healthy communities process is a strong catalyst for change.