Considering the Public Health and Reno Models: Strategic and Tactical Approaches for Dealing with Gambling-Related Harms

Abstract

Some critics of the Reno model appear to have misinterpreted its fundamental tenets by expressing the belief that the model is incompatible with the public health model. Both the public health and Reno models attempt to influence policies and strategies designed to promote responsible gambling and the reduction of gambling-related harms. In this article, we describe four principles that characterize a public health perspective focusing on gambling and discuss how the Reno model complements the public health approach. Both models encompass principles and guidelines that emphasize the shared responsibilities across multiple stakeholders including governments, industry, community welfare, and individuals. The Reno model represents a tactical framework for responsible gambling complementing the broader population public health approach, each model consistent in attempting to prevent the incidence, reduce the prevalence, and minimize gambling disorders and related harms. Paradoxically, although stakeholders are in agreement about the general principles and objectives, differences are evident in the manner different interventions are chosen and applied in efforts to achieve common goals.