Culture of Health in Practice

Weaving together research findings and narratives, Culture of Health in Practice: Innovations in Research, Community Engagement, and Action explores the many opportunities we have as a society to advance a Culture of Health and makes the case that a commitment to health equity is fundamental to bringing those efforts into the mainstream. In this latest contribution to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Culture of Health Series, contributors describe the challenges and opportunities in rural and urban regions, in neighborhoods and schools, in prisons and workplaces. They explore different populations, including immigrants, minority youth, and individuals with substance use disorders; the risks posed by climate change; the role of the media in shaping the public discourse; and the innovations being spearheaded by health providers, insurers, and community leaders. Together, the chapters carry the message that while the challenges are daunting, achieving health equity for all lies within reach.

Alonzo L. Plough, PhD, MPH, MA, is the chief science officer and vice president of Research-Evaluation-Learning at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Plough has had a distinguished career in public health practice, academia, and philanthropy. His work focuses on improving health and well-being, and achieving health equity. Plough serves as a board member for many health and social welfare organizations.

Introduction

SECTION I. Mainstreaming a Culture of Health

1 - Incorporating "Culture" Within a Culture of Health

2 - How Media Shapes the Public Discourse and Influences Health
Chapter 2 Spotlight: Media Marketing to Minority Youth

SECTION II. At Home, at School, at Work

3 - Pathways to Change in Rural America

4 - Linking Education and Health to Support the Whole Child

5 - Employers as Shapers of Health

SECTION III. Challenging Inequity Through Systems Innovation

6 - Disrupting the Cycle of Incarceration
Chapter 6 Spotlight: Fathers Mentoring Fathers

7 - The Opioid Epidemic: Busting Myths and Sharing Solutions
Chapter 7 Spotlight: Rural Addiction: A Perfect Storm, a Nod to Grandma, Pills for Cash

8 - Achieving Health Equity for Immigrants and Their Children

9 - Climate Change, Environmental Stressors, and Resilience
Chapter 9 Spotlight: A Just Recovery for Puerto Rico

10 - The Green Health Care Revolution

11 - Driving Innovation Through Medicaid
Chapter 11 Spotlight: A Private Insurer Tackles Social Determinants

Conclusion 181

Index