Community Engagement to Improve Community Health
摘要
This chapter looks at the role of community engagement in facilitating and maximising the effectiveness of healthcare systems, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases and disease risks, with the goal of improving overall community health. It is integral at all levels of healthcare, involving the development, implementation, and evaluation of health-related practices and management. At its core, community engagement involves building relationships and partnerships among various stakeholders, including patients, family members, community members, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. It entails a participatory approach that enhances trust, empowers individuals, and improves both health literacy and social cohesion. Over the years, various frameworks and approaches for effective community engagement have been developed, which can be tailored to meet the specific needs and resources of local populations, thereby enhancing the potential for meaningful interaction and collaboration within communities. Despite its importance, there are challenges to achieving successful community involvement. Key obstacles include a lack of awareness, insufficient empowerment within the community, and limited funding and resources. There is a need for more evidence on the direct impact of community engagement on health outcomes of non-communicable diseases at both the community and individual levels. This chapter highlights three case studies from Malaysia, where community engagement is the main focus of intervention. The outcomes and challenges of these initiatives are discussed.