Health Impact Assessment (HIA) Knowledge and Needs Scan: Findings, Gaps and Recommendations

Background

Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is a structured approach that allows decision makers to consider how a policy, program or project could affect health. HIAs are often carried out as part of other assessment processes (e.g., environment, transportation, planning) but may be conducted on a stand-alone basis. The findings of an HIA may be used to inform recommendations on whether to approve or defer a proposal or to require modifications to mitigate adverse impacts or maximize benefits for affected individuals, communities or sub-groups.  Up to six steps may be included: screening, scoping, assessment, recommendation, reporting, and monitoring and evaluation.

Incorporating health criteria in assessment processes has been advocated by agencies such as Health Canada and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA). Some provinces, territories, regions and municipalities require or promote the use of HIA. However, until 2019, federal regulations did not require HIA or the involvement of the public health sector in environmental and other types of assessments.

About this report

This report presents the results from the first national scan related to the involvement of Canadian Public Health Professional s in HIA. The findings from an online survey and key informant interviews are summarized; the gaps in practice and challenges faced are reviewed; and recommendations for improving practice are made.