Enhancing Outcomes through School-Based Health Promotion Programs
As practitioners dedicated to fostering positive outcomes for children, it is crucial to utilize evidence-based approaches that are both effective and economically viable. A recent study published in the European Journal of Public Health provides valuable insights into the cost-effectiveness and return on investment (ROI) of school-based health promotion programs aimed at preventing chronic diseases. This blog will delve into the findings of this research and explore how practitioners can implement these insights to enhance their practice.
Understanding the Research Findings
The study evaluated three types of school-based interventions: Comprehensive School Health (CSH), multicomponent programs, and physical education (PE) curriculum modifications. The findings revealed that each of these interventions demonstrated favorable economic benefits, with CSH programs emerging as the most cost-effective and offering the highest ROI.
- CSH programs were cost-effective at CA$682 per student per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained.
- Multicomponent interventions were cost-effective at CA$444 per student per QALY gained.
- PE curriculum modifications were cost-effective at CA$416 per student per QALY gained.
Moreover, if these interventions were implemented at a total discounted cost of CA$100 per student, the ROI through the avoidance of direct healthcare costs related to chronic diseases would be 824% for CSH, 465% for multicomponent interventions, and 484% for PE curriculum modifications.
Implementing Research Insights in Practice
For practitioners, these findings underscore the importance of integrating CSH programs into school-based health promotion efforts. By doing so, practitioners can maximize both health outcomes and economic benefits. Here are some actionable steps to consider:
- Advocate for CSH Programs: Use the data to advocate for the adoption of CSH programs in schools, highlighting their cost-effectiveness and high ROI.
- Collaborate with Stakeholders: Engage with educators, policymakers, and healthcare providers to ensure the sustainability and success of these programs.
- Monitor and Evaluate: Continuously assess the impact of implemented programs to ensure they meet desired health outcomes and remain cost-effective.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides robust evidence for the economic benefits of school-based health promotion programs, further research is essential to explore additional intervention types and their potential impact. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of knowledge by conducting studies that evaluate the long-term effects and scalability of these programs.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Cost-effectiveness and return on investment of school-based health promotion programmes for chronic disease prevention.
