GPH 97: Health Needs Assessment

Health needs assessment is a foundational public health function. It bridges epidemiology, ethics, economics, and policy by systematically identifying unmet health needs within populations and guiding strategic planning.This chapter explores epidemiological assessment, patterns of health inequality, demographic profiling, burden of disease analysis, and the equity–efficiency balance in decision-making. It considers philosophical approaches to need, including capability frameworks, and the ethical dimensions of prioritisation.Health needs assessment is not merely data collection; it is a structured judgement process shaping service provision, commissioning, and population strategy. It determines who receives what care - and why.Effective public health planning begins with rigorous understanding of need.Key Takeaways* Health needs assessment integrates epidemiology, demography, and service analysis.* Burden of disease and inequity profiling guide prioritisation.* Ethical considerations influence allocation decisions.* The equity–efficiency trade-off is central to planning.* Data quality and community engagement strengthen assessment validity.* Health needs assessment informs commissioning and service design.* Transparent processes enhance accountability. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit drmanaankarray.substack.com/subscribe