3.9. Health Advocacy and Civic Engagement
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Define health advocacy and civic engagement in healthcare.
- Identify examples of health-related policies and community health issues.
- Analyze a health issue, identify stakeholders, and suggest advocacy actions.
- Research and describe the mission and work of a healthcare NGO or advocacy group.
- Reflect on how they can contribute to health advocacy in their communities
Part 1: Warm-Up
What is Health Advocacy?
- Write down what you think “health advocacy” means:
- Have you heard about any health advocacy initiatives in your community? If yes, describe one briefly:
- Why do you think advocating for health-related issues is important?
Part 2: Vocabulary
Match the vocabulary words to their correct definitions.
Practice the vocabulary
Using the vocabulary you learned in the previous exercise, complete the below sentences.
Part 3: Case study – Advocacy
Case study analysis
In your group, read through the case study provided by your instructor. Use the table below to organize your discussion:
| Case Study Topic | Key Stakeholders | Potential Policies to Advocate For | Ways to Support Advocacy |
|---|---|---|---|
Case Study 1: Access to Mental Health Services
Background:
In a small community, a recent survey revealed that many residents struggle to access mental health services. Barriers include a lack of available providers, long wait times for appointments, and limited awareness of mental health resources. Many individuals do not seek help due to stigma or misinformation about mental health issues.
Key Stakeholders:
- Local mental health clinics
- Healthcare providers (psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors)
- Community members (patients experiencing mental health issues)
- Policymakers and local government
Discussion Questions:
- What are the potential health-related policies that could be advocated for to improve access to mental health services in this community?
- How can community members engage in advocacy to raise awareness about mental health resources?
- What steps can be taken to reduce stigma surrounding mental health in the community?
Case Study 2: Vaccination Campaign
Background:
A local public health department is launching a vaccination campaign to increase immunization rates among children in the community. There has been a noticeable decline in vaccination rates due to misinformation about vaccine safety and accessibility issues. The department aims to educate parents and provide free vaccination clinics to improve community health.
Key Stakeholders:
- Public health officials
- Parents and guardians
- Local schools and daycare centers
- Community organizations (e.g., health advocacy groups)
Discussion Questions:
- What potential policies could be implemented to support the vaccination campaign in this community?
- How can parents and community members get involved in promoting vaccine awareness and accessibility?
- What strategies can be used to combat misinformation about vaccines?
Background:
In an urban area known as a food desert, many residents lack access to affordable and nutritious food. Local advocacy groups have identified this issue and are working to establish community gardens and farmers’ markets. They aim to improve residents’ access to healthy food options and educate the community about nutrition.
Key Stakeholders:
- Local advocacy groups and non-profits
- Community members (residents of the food desert)
- Local farmers and food producers
- City planners and government officials
Discussion Questions:
- What health-related policies could be advocated for to enhance access to healthy food in food deserts?
- How can community members actively participate in the establishment of community gardens and farmers’ markets?
- What educational initiatives can support residents in making healthier food choices?
Part 4: Advocacy in healthcare
Listen to a healthcare professional talking about health advocacy.
NGO & Advocacy Group Research (Pair Work)
With a partner, research a local or national health-focused NGO or advocacy group. Use the internet to do your research.
- What is the name of the organization?
- What is its mission or goal?
- What health issue does it focus on?
- What are some current campaigns or programs?
- How can people like you get involved?
- Be ready to share your findings with the class.
Part 5: Wrap up
Reflection and Wrap-Up
Write a brief reflection on what you learned about health advocacy and civic engagement. Consider the following questions:
- Why is it important to engage with health-related issues in your community?
- How do you plan to get involved in advocacy efforts in the future?
- Write down one key takeaway from today’s lesson:
Be prepared to share your reflection with the class. Write down one idea or strategy shared by a classmate that you found helpful or inspiring.
