Public health reformers need better communication tools

Great ideas for public health are just that—ideas. Most go nowhere. What I’ve seen spark national and even international success is a well-conceived communication strategy—and the tactical implementation to make it happen. Smart communication planning and execution is a skill that people can develop. It helps create support, momentum, and dollars for better public health. Here are three of my favorite examples, the first Cash & Counseling. The program had spectacular results: People who chose it were less likely to go to nursing homes, more satisfied with their care, and reported major gains in their overall satisfaction. Outreach to every important audience was baked in from the start to win support.