Background:

This presentation contributes to the emerging evidence-base in relation to action on the social determinants of health in Australia. The purpose of this year-long study was to map and identify current and emerging national trends within health promotion and in so doing, generate new insights into the future directions, opportunities and challenges facing the field.

Methods:

Drawing on a collaborative auto-ethnographic framework, this qualitative study examined narrative data arising from in-depth, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (n = 12) who had demonstrated expertise within the disciplines of health promotion and public health. A snowballing recruitment technique was implemented, followed by thematic analysis to identify key action areas for current consideration and probable future trends.

Results/Discussions:

Using the Ottawa Charter as a central structure, this presentation will illustrate how health leaders (past and present) deconstruct: a) resistance to acting on evidence, b) the importance of creating a critical mass for change through teamwork and b) the need for vision.
Specifically, principal themes to be discussed include the prevailing chronic disease prevention agenda, challenges associated with working upstream and addressing the social determinants of health, plus the potential of social marketing and the need for sophisticated advocates and entrepreneurial leadership. Whilst some conflicting comments were present and some priorities differed, data saturation suggests many agree on what can be improved and how.

Conclusions/implications:

This study reinforces the role of reflective practice when setting health agendas and informing policy. This presentation highlights the need to engage in a deep conversation about the rapidly changing world and the subsequent implications on our work. It is anticipated this presentation will provide a clearer understanding of the future directions of the field and inspire an enhanced capacity for health promotion action and leadership.