Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is a process through which the potential impacts of a policy, plan or initiative on health and wellbeing are identified, including the differential impacts on sub-groups of the population. The assessment seeks to influence decision-makers so that adjustments to the policy, plan or initiative can be made.
HIA seeks to improve partnership working through its multi-agency approach. It also prioritises public participation throughout the process in order to reflect the hopes and concerns of citizens. HIA therefore encompasses a variety of expertise, including that of the community. Specific recommendations are made as a result of the assessment and are prioritised for decision-makers based on best available evidence.
A comprehensive HIA, led by the Health Policy Team, has been undertaken on the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games plans.
A rapid HIA of Glasgow’s New Economic Strategy has also been completed and options for a more comprehensive HIA of the Economic strategy are now being considered.