Health Nexus (formerly OPC) is Ontario's leading bilingual health promotion organization.

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Web Coverage - Day 2 - Morning concurrent dialogue

1A – Can we change the system? How?

Panelists

Helen C. Cooper
Board Member, Ontario Prevention Clearinghouse

Ruth Grier
Chair of the Environmental and Occupational Working Group of the Toronto Cancer Prevention Coalition
Member of the Provincial Cancer Prevention and Screening Council

"The actions outlined in the OPC report "The Case for Prevention" could well become the template for future action and advocacy by those working in the front lines of health and social services."

Doris Grinspun
Executive Director, Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

Session summary

Ruth Grier presented critical elements required to achieve system level change in terms of timing, communications strategy and resources.

Timing:

Need a climate that is open to change, including a critical mass of public opinion
Timing is a matter of opportunity; be flexible and seize opportunities as they appear
Value in influencing the political agenda early, in time to position issues and gain momentum before the next election arrives.

Resources:

A critical mass of people who are advocates (look for unlikely supporters and find a champion - someone with ability who has access to elected members)
Find the resources you need to address an issue - whether it's new money or reallocating existing funds.

Communications Strategy:

Don't underestimate the need for public awareness/education.
Do the research, give people the facts and trust that they will mobilize around them to take action.
Focus on the short term while not losing sight of the long term.
Maximize all communication options available (TV, print and/or electronic options including blogs, letters, talk shows, etc.)
Demonstrate the economic costs and benefits. At the same time, be aware of powerful interests and be prepared to address them.

Doris Grinspun outlined a simple equation to achieving system level change. She says 3 components are needed:

1. Find people representing extremes of the same issue
2. Find people in a position of power
3. Find negotiators who can bring the 2 sides together - to build strategies and action plans.