Egészséghatásvizsgálatok

Egészséghatásvizsgálatok, often translated as Health Impact Assessments (HIAs), are systematic processes that identify and evaluate the potential health effects of proposed policies, plans, programs, or projects. The goal is to provide decision-makers with information about the health consequences of their choices, enabling them to make informed decisions that promote and protect public health.

HIAs consider a wide range of potential health impacts, both positive and negative, and can address direct health outcomes like disease incidence, as well as indirect effects such as those related to social determinants of health, including housing, education, employment, and environmental quality. They typically involve multiple steps, starting with screening to determine if an HIA is needed, followed by scoping to define the boundaries of the assessment and identify key health issues.

The core of an HIA involves data collection and analysis to understand how the proposed action might affect health. This often includes literature reviews, stakeholder consultations, and the use of epidemiological data. Following the analysis, recommendations are developed to mitigate negative health impacts and enhance positive ones. These recommendations are then presented to decision-makers and the public, aiming to integrate health considerations into the final decision-making process.

HIAs can be applied across various sectors, including urban planning, transportation, energy development, and public health interventions. They are a valuable tool for proactive health promotion and disease prevention, offering a framework for considering health equity and ensuring that development benefits are shared broadly. The process encourages collaboration between health professionals, planners, policymakers, and community members.