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. 2014 Feb 7:2:2050312114522618.
doi: 10.1177/2050312114522618. eCollection 2014.

The population health approach: A qualitative study of conceptual and operational definitions for leaders in Canadian healthcare

Deborah Cohen  1 , Tai Huynh  2 , Anne Sebold  3 , Jean Harvey  3 , Cory Neudorf  4 , Adalsteinn Brown  5
Affiliations

The population health approach: A qualitative study of conceptual and operational definitions for leaders in Canadian healthcare

Deborah Cohen et al. SAGE Open Med. .

Abstract

Objectives: The population health approach is increasingly recognized for its role in health system reform; however, its broad scope and definition have been criticized for being a barrier to clear communication. This qualitative study examined the way senior healthcare leaders in Canada conceptualize and operationalize the population health approach in planning and decision-making.

Findings: Core elements of the population health approach included focusing on health and wellness rather than illness, taking a population rather than individual orientation, understanding needs and solutions through community outreach, addressing health disparities/health in vulnerable groups, addressing the social determinants of health and inter-sectoral action and partnerships.

Conclusion: The population health approach is increasingly recognized for its role in reducing healthcare demand and contributing to health system sustainability. This study demonstrated the growing need to clarify terminology among multiform partners to establish a foundation for future healthcare integration and inter-sectoral action.

Keywords: Public health; healthcare; population health approach; qualitative study; terminology.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of conflicting interests: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not reflect those of Canadian Institute for Health Information.

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