The Four-Legged Stool

Abstract

Seven prerequisites are suggested for successful community involvement in health care programs at community hospitals. Initially, there should be a communicated understanding that willingness to change exists. Second, an actual demonstrated change should begin. Third, a mechanism for community participation in this change should be developed. Fourth, an organized formal department with stated objectives and authority should be formed. Next, the hospital services must recognize principles of an interrelating partnership with this new department. Sixth, provision for educational and research activities must be defined. Experiences with these principles in the organization and formation of a department of community medicine are described resulting in the final requirement of a partnership of professional staff, the institution, and the community.