THE HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUALS AT RISK FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES AND DIABETES IMPLEMENTATION IN MUNICIPALITY: THE STAKEHOLDERS’ PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This article analysis the health promotion program for individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes implemented jointly by primary health care institutions and the public health bureau in the municipality of Panevėžio city. A qualitative study using a semi-structured interview method was performed in January – February 2018, involving ten representatives of primary health care institutions and the public health bureau which have concluded the cooperation agreement. In the context of the health promotion program implementation, the main collaboration forms between primary health care institutions and the public health bureau remain sending official documents by email and meetings in primary health care institutions. The key prerequisites for the development of closer collaboration are an active involvement of the public health bureau in increasing participation rates of individuals at risk, primary health care institutions actions to strengthen the coordination of the health promotion program implementation in primary health settings and to initiate collaboration with the public health bureau. The main barriers of the implementation of the health promotion program were identified at systemic, organizational and interpersonal levels: legal regulation; the lack of actions of the municipality doctor and administration of primary health care institutions, ineffective work organization of family physicians, insufficient coordination of the health promotion program in primary health settings, the lack of patients motivation, their and family physicians negative attitudes forwards the implementation of the health promotion program.