Steps in the Health Communication Process

Abstract

T he health communication process can be complicated, but like any complex process the health communication effort can be broken down into a number of discrete steps. By developing an understanding of these steps the process can become infinitely more manageable. The sections below outline the various steps involved-from beginning to end-in the process. While they are presented in fairly strict sequence, it should be realized that there are situations in which the sequence might be changed or, in rare circumstances, a step be eliminated. STAGES IN THE HEALTH COMMUNICATION PROCESS The health communication process can be divided into several distinct stages. For our purposes, we can consider these stages as: planning, development, implementation, and evaluation. Each of these stages will be discussed in turn. The Planning Stage Planning is critical to the development of an effective health communication project. A carefully devised plan will enable the project to produce meaningful results. Taking the time to carefully plan the project will ultimately save time by defining program objectives and indicating steps for meeting those objectives.Even if the project is part of a broader health promotion effort, a plan specific to the communication component is necessary. 103