The Future of Health Education: The Knowledge to Practice Paradox

Abstract

The challenge before us is to put into practice what the profession has known and professed for years. Regardless of our place of practice, our ability to identify and meet the needs of our local communities and neighborhoods is likely to be the measure that will determine our success as health educators. Social, demographic, political, and economic changes will force the way we deliver health education programming to change. Time, energy, and resources that are currently being directed to our site(s) of operation, i.e., schools, worksite, etc. are likely to diminish as the concept of “healthy communities” gains favor. With the establishment of national objectives, a professional credentialing process, and national standards, the profession is positioned to achieve great success. The collaborative efforts of our professional organizations have positioned the profession to move into the next century. In addition to these efforts, there is also a need to unify the profession to reduce the fragmentation and replication of professional services and to maximize the potential for professional growth.