Strategies for reaching vulnerable groups in municipal health promotion

Abstract

Abstract Background Contrary to the actual goal of health promotion, which is to reach all population groups equally, groups with an already better state of health are reached by such health services whereas vulnerable or socially disadvantaged groups are often not reached. Specific offers for the latter, however, can lead to stigmatization by reducing them on certain risk factors. This results in a further increase of health inequalities. Methods As part of the Joint Action Health Equity Europe (Work Package 6), 13 participating countries have initiated individual projects since autumn 2019 to promote community health and health equity. These projects are based on previously systematically identified country-specific needs. Through content analysis according to Mayring of interim reports and interviews with the project partners, it will now be investigated which strategies have been used to reach vulnerable groups. Recommendations for other countries will be derived from this comprehensive experience. Results At this stage, the observations indicate that different strategies are chosen to reach different vulnerable groups. It can be assumed that direct connection to existing networks, which enable low-threshold access to these groups in their everyday life and participatory approaches that involve the target group in planning and implementation, seem to be promising. Conclusions The diversity, uniquely portrayed by the various projects from different European countries, provides an overview of the differences and similarities in the strategies used for reaching vulnerable groups from which approaches can be generated that are internationally relevant and transferable. Key messages Gaining access to vulnerable groups requires special consideration in health promotion. The results of the JAHEE project (WP6) show promising and diverse strategies for dealing with vulnerable groups.