Ottawa Charter

What does ‘build healthy public policy’ refer to?

Relates directly to the decisions made by the government and organisations in relation to laws, regulations and policies that affect health.

-E.g. Increasing tax on alcoholic drinks + seat belt laws.

What does ‘create supportive environments’ refer to?

A supportive environment is one that promotes health and assists people in making healthy lifestyle choices.

-E.g. Quitline + shaded areas in playgrounds.

What does ‘strengthen community action’ refer to?

Focuses on building links between the individuals and the community and the centres around the community working towards a common goal.

-E.g. neighbourhood watch and safe houses program.

What does ‘develop personal skills’ refer to?

Individuals need to gain knowledge, life skills and information through health promotion and education.

-E.g. exercising for health benefits + being sun-smart.

What does ‘reorient health services’ refer to?

Health system need to reorient health so that they promote health as opposed to only focusing on diagnosis.

-E.g. doctor discussing stopping smoking to asthma patient + personal trainer discussing importance of physical activity and healthy eating to a group of students.

What is a health program to tackle Indigenous smoking?

TIS: Tackling Indigenous Smoking focuses on Indigenous communities to reduce smoking and e-cigarette usage, promote ‘smoke-free’ communities and such to improve the life expectancy of First Nations people and increase the number of healthy birthweights. They achieve these goals through service delivery, national support, and national evaluation. They have regional TIS teams, national projects, etc.