Development of a consumer engagement framework

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this project was to develop a Consumer Engagement Model to plan for effective baby boomer engagement to inform policy makers in the healthcare system. This is the first stage of that process. Design: Initial model development for healthcare systems based on literature review and author group experience in evidence-based practice and research, and consumer advocacy and engagement. Setting and population: South Australian health and community service systems, and healthcare professionals that work with baby boomers. Findings: To develop an evidence-based Consumer Engagement Plan, it is recommended that policy makers undertake the four steps outlined in this document to design a question, determine consumer and community segments and scope of engagement, determine the breadth and depth of engagement and address the implications, assess risk and develop strategic partnerships to ensure the Plan is evidencebased, reasonable and achievable. Conclusions: We believe this process provides a framework for planning consumer engagement and for implementation, monitoring, evaluation and review of consumer engagement for policy excellence. We propose to undertake a validation of the model thus populating the model with examples of practice-based strategies and revising the model accordingly.