The approach to developing Ireland’s first national health protection strategy and lessons learnt

Health protection is recognised as an essential public health function by the World Health Organization. It includes the prevention and control of infectious disease, environmental and radiation risks, and the emergency response to major incidents. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of strengthening this function worldwide. To address this as a public health priority in Ireland, between January and October 2022 the first national first Health Protection Strategy (2022-2027) for the Health Service Executive (HSE) was developed. This was led by the then National Clinical Director for Health Protection supported by a Project Working Group (PWG), with governance and oversight from a multi-disciplinary Steering Committee (SC). Key steps in strategy formation included detailed stakeholder analysis, exploration of the policy context for the strategy, and development of a consultation plan with guidance of an external facilitator. Two SC consultation workshops were held (March and June 2022). Workshop 1 focused on defining strategic vision, aim, and objectives. Workshop 2 verified objectives and identified enablers. A subsequent e-consultation invited feedback from wider stakeholders (July 2022). The strategy, published 13th October 2022, outlines 10 strategic objectives and 11 associated enablers. Progression of strategy implementation will require further stakeholder engagement, development of implementation plans, and establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework, including annual review of implementation. Strengths of the strategy development approach included multidisciplinary SC input and oversight, review of the national and international policy context, detailed stakeholder analysis and engagement, and the comprehensive consultation plan developed with external facilitator input. Lessons from our experience can support colleagues internationally to strategically set out their priorities for health protection beyond COVID-19. KEY MESSAGES: • The development of the first HSE Health Protection Strategy 2022-2027 is a critical step to ensure a clear framework for the delivery of national health protection functions going forward. • As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, public health bodies should strategically set out priorities for health protection beyond COVID-19 – lessons from our experience in doing so can inform this work.