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What contributes to successful public health leadership for health equity? An appreciative inquiry

This project set out to identify factors or conditions that influence effective public health leadership to address social determinants of health and health equity. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 public health leaders from across Canada using an appreciative inquiry method.

Analysis of the interviews revealed that successful leadership requires three supporting factors, including:

  • organizational supports, including allocation of funds, human resources, high quality population health data, and adherence to external policies and standards;
  • bridging organizational activities with community action, for instance by partnering and engaging with community organizations; and
  • professional competencies, which include the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to advocate for health equity.

This report contributes to the evidence base, and paves a way forward for public health action on the social determinants of health.

Use this resource to:

  • Identify and foster those factors in your organization that support effective leadership for health equity
  • Read examples of successful leadership activities to address social determinants of health and health equity
  • Learn about the role of public health leadership in building community partnerships

Click here for the key messages

Click here for the summary

National Collaborating Centre for Determinants of Health. (2013). What Contributes to Successful Public Health Leadership for Health Equity? An Appreciative Inquiry: 14 Interviews. Antigonish, NS: Author.

Tags: Competencies & organizational standards, Leadership & capacity building, Document, Report / Document