Health Equilibrium Methodology (HEM), a digital tool in public health work for health equity

Abstract

Abstract HEM draws on theories for health behavior and power relations. The methodology contains a structured documentation for formative and summative purposes. Strive for a high level of participation, control and influence from individuals and community members is a foundation pillar. Systematic use of theories allows for answering the fundamental question “in what way do we anticipate the planned intervention to contribute to closing the health gap?” Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) considers social and physical environment. HEM currently involve several SCT determinants in planning and evaluation; self- efficacy, observational learning, facilitating, expectations of outcome, reciprocal determination. The qualitative procedure is described below. Numeric data are also collected. Step one (before action, e.g. a dialogue-meeting): Consider which determinant(s) may be affected by the planned action, and by what mechanisms. Step two: Carry out the action. Step three: Describe what happened, based on input from the participants and the anticipated determinants and mechanisms. Step four: Systematic self-critical review based on common grounds for discrimination. Examples: Was it difficult to engage or include participants because of language, gender, function variation, national background or other factor? In retrospect, can you identify stereotypes in the examples you used? Did anybody else at the event act to maintain prejudice or exclusion? Step five: consider implications for methodological development. Step six: Formative collective evaluation based on reflections from step four and implications from step five. Stakeholders using HEM gather regularly for workshops based on their HEM-reports, aiming at developing tools for increasing health equity. HEM is implemented in public health work of Angered Hospital and the Dental Public Health, Region Västra Götaland, and is used by 20 different stakeholders. A web-application has been developed to facilitate documentation and spread.