As practitioners dedicated to improving children's health outcomes, we must stay informed about the most effective interventions for school health services (SHSs). A recent global survey of experts, detailed in the research article "Results of a Global Survey of Experts to Categorize the Suitability of Interventions for Inclusion in School Health Services," provides valuable insights into which interventions are deemed essential for inclusion in SHSs.
The survey, conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO), involved 1,293 experts from various regions and disciplines. They assessed 86 health-related interventions for school-aged children, categorizing them as essential, highly suitable, suitable, or unsuitable for SHSs. The findings highlight several key interventions that practitioners should consider integrating into their programs.
Key Findings
The survey revealed that health promotion and health education interventions are highly regarded, with the following interventions most frequently categorized as "Essential in SHSs everywhere":
- Promotion of personal hygiene and handwashing with soap (80%)
- Provision of sexual and reproductive health education (75%)
- Promotion of health literacy (73%)
- Health education about nutrition (73%)
- Promotion of oral health care (70%)
Clinical interventions also received significant support, particularly those related to immunization, screening, assessment, and general care. Notably, the administration of immunizations recommended for all children (68%) and screening for vision problems (67%) were highly rated.
Implications for Practitioners
These findings underscore the importance of incorporating comprehensive health promotion and education initiatives within SHSs. Practitioners should prioritize:
- Implementing programs that promote personal hygiene, health literacy, and nutrition education.
- Ensuring access to essential clinical services such as immunizations and vision screenings.
- Supporting policies that address risk reduction and disease prevention.
Additionally, practitioners should consider the geographical context of their interventions. For instance, the provision of insecticide-treated bed nets and targeted immunizations were deemed essential in specific regions, highlighting the need for tailored approaches based on local health challenges.
Encouraging Further Research
While the survey provides a robust foundation for prioritizing interventions, it also indicates the need for further research to refine and contextualize these recommendations. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in continuous learning and contribute to the evolving body of knowledge on SHSs.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Results of a Global Survey of Experts to Categorize the Suitability of Interventions for Inclusion in School Health Services.
