Unpacking Health Impact Assessment | Golden Age

Health impact assessment (HIA) is a systematic process used to evaluate the potential health effects of policies, projects, and programs. Developed in the 1980s, HIA has its roots in environmental impact assessment and has since evolved to incorporate social and economic factors. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIA is widely reported to have been applied in over 100 countries, with a notable example being the assessment of the London 2012 Olympics, which had a vibe score of 80 for its health-focused initiatives. The process typically involves screening, scoping, assessment, and monitoring, with a focus on identifying potential health risks and opportunities for improvement. As of 2022, the controversy spectrum for HIA is moderate, with debates surrounding its effectiveness in influencing policy decisions. Proponents, such as the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, argue that HIA can inform decision-making and promote health equity, while critics, including some in the American Journal of Public Health, raise concerns about its resource intensity and potential for bias.