Population Health Approach - Health Canada Collaboration and Partnerships Defining Intersectoral Action Elements of Intersectoral Action Collaboration and Partnerships Intersectoral collaboration is based on the understanding that health is determined by multiple, interrelated factors, and that creating and maintaining health requires action from those sectors whose work aligns with the various health determinants. For example, Health Canada worked with the Ministry of Transport to develop healthy public policy concerning smoking regulations for various modes of public transit. Within a population health approach, the health sector works with other sectors to develop, implement, evaluate, research and resource actions for improved population health. Only through action within and between sectors, at the local, regional, provincial and national levels, will it be possible to influence the social, economic, and environmental conditions that enable and support the health and well-being of Canadians. Taking a broad view of health also broadens the players at the health table.
Health is more than health care.
Forging partnerships across levels and sectors of government, and between government and non-government entities is the principal mechanism for mobilizing a population health approach. It can be both a strategy and a process. Intersectoral action can be used to promote and achieve shared goals in a number of areas, for example policy, research, planning, practice and funding. It may be implemented through a myriad of activities including advocacy, legislation, community projects, policy and program action. It may take different forms such as cooperative initiatives, alliances, coalitions or partnerships.