A scholar-practitioner should take into account the gaps and disparities of knowledge and health care within their own community when identifying a population issue. The literature and health data can give insight into the root cause and prevalence of an issue. In addition, engaging families, community members, health professionals, and the entire community, can give unique perspectives and solutions to the issue.
Scholar practitioners should identify the problem and develop a culturally-appropriate, evidence-based intervention that targets primary prevention. The intervention must be based on goals that are measurable and aim to reduce or eliminate the problem in the community. A school-based physical activity program and a healthy diet could be part of an evidence-based childhood obesity intervention.
Scholar practitioners should engage with community leaders, policymakers and healthcare providers to advocate improved health outcomes. The regular monitoring and evaluation through the use of measurable goals will help determine whether or not changes have been made and if additional interventions and modifications are necessary.
The web of causation can help expand the scholar practitioner’s understanding of the complexity of the population by highlighting the interrelated and multifaceted factors that contribute to the health issue. This knowledge can guide the design of an integrated and culturally-appropriate intervention that addresses the root causes.