This course introduces Health Impact Assessments (HIA), a systematic, stepwise approach that informs decision-makers about the potential health impacts of proposed projects, programs, and policies. Typically, HIAs assess decisions whose primary focus is not related to health (e.g., natural resources, infrastructure, education, housing) but which are likely to affect the public’s health. The primary objectives of HIAs are to minimize negative health outcomes and maximize positive ones stemming from the proposed undertaking prior to implementation.
Students will study the rationale and process for conducting HIAs; how HIAs may fit within broad policy frameworks such as Health in All Policies; analytic methods used to conduct HIAs. Because the conduct of HIA may vary broadly over cultural, institutional, and legislative contexts, case studies will be used to extensively.
Learning objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to
- Identify the foundations of HIA and its connection concepts related to global health leadership, including Health in All Polices, health equity, One Health, Social Determinants of Health, and Health Promotion;
- Explain the HIA process and applications;
- Apply competencies in HIA practice to the design of assessments;
- Critically evaluate completed HIA reports;
- Reflect on how HIA relates to your knowledge and experience of public health practice; and
- Distinguish between HIA and other assessment frameworks (e.g., Environmental Impact Assessment, Health Risk Assessment).
Students will study the rationale and process for conducting HIAs; how HIAs may fit within broad policy frameworks such as Health in All Policies; analytic methods used to conduct HIAs. Because the conduct of HIA may vary broadly over cultural, institutional, and legislative contexts, case studies will be used to extensively.
Learning objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to
- Identify the foundations of HIA and its connection concepts related to global health leadership, including Health in All Polices, health equity, One Health, Social Determinants of Health, and Health Promotion;
- Explain the HIA process and applications;
- Apply competencies in HIA practice to the design of assessments;
- Critically evaluate completed HIA reports;
- Reflect on how HIA relates to your knowledge and experience of public health practice; and
- Distinguish between HIA and other assessment frameworks (e.g., Environmental Impact Assessment, Health Risk Assessment).
- Teacher: שירה פרימן