engleski

Participatory action research in planning for health at local level: Case study Kosovo

Last years there were a plethora of international projects supporting development in different governmental sectors as well as in civil society in Kosovo. Majority of these projects were (and still are) very important and useful in solving local needs, or initiating the process of creating new ways for local people. This is one very important strengths, local professionals in different field learned more and being well trained in certain areas. On the other hand, it is a weakness: „copy-paste“ and transfer model of good practice from abroad usually does not empower local capacities and used „paternalistic“ approach. Therefore, the program „Planning for health“ at local levels was developed and implemented since September 2014 in seven regions in Kosovo. This paper presents methods, experiences and outcomes of the Program aiming to assist regions to asses local health needs in participative manner, select priorities and plan for health. Program incorporates a multi-disciplinary and inter-sectoral approach, consultation with community („bottom-up approach“) and use of qualitative analysis (RAP). Program increased regional-level capacities to conduct health planning and has successfully engaged local stakeholders from political, executive and technical sectors. It involved variety of local group's (youth, unemployed, farmers, housewives, rural and urban families, etc.) as well as professionals from health and social welfare sectors, education, religions, policy-makers, media, etc. Regional Health Profiles gave the essential quanitative and qualitative data on health needs and health priorities in local communities and are the basic document in planning for health for local government and local professionals.

participatory action research ; planning for health ; Kosovo

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