Prudent Health and Behaviour Change: How behaviour science can impact the NHS

The Wales Centre for Behaviour Change (WCBC) at Bangor University recently presented to NHS staff from across Wales on how behaviour science can impact the NHS, and promote the Prudent Health model something the WCBC has been involved in previously (see here and here)

According to the Prudent Health website and The Bevan Commission, Prudent Health is...

“...healthcare which is conceived, managed and delivered in a cautious and wise way characterised by forethought, vigilance and careful budgeting which achieves tangible benefits and quality outcomes for patients.”

Organised by 1000LivesPlus, the WCBC were asked to present to a varied group of individuals on the topic of behaviour in the workplace from a healthcare context in order to meet the coming challenge presented by the Prudent model.

The day was opened by Professor Nichola Callow, Dean of College of Health & Behavioural Sciences and Dr. John Parkinson, Head of School of Psychology who introduced the two presenters, Philip Nelson and Eleanor Heather, both researchers at the Wales Centre for Behaviour Change (WCBC). The two discussed a broad range of topics including how social norms affect our decisions, how to change behaviour without using punishments, and a new model for businesses to use to change behaviour, developed in the WCBC; NEWIDEA.

Dr. John Parkinson said “Healthcare and healthy living are critical issues in Wales now and for the future, and it is great to see Bangor University and Public Health Wales working together in supporting the Prudent Health agenda. It is becoming increasingly important that individual’s take responsibility for their health decisions and behaviour, and the Wales Centre for Behaviour Change can play an important role in supporting the Welsh population to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.”

The day was well received by participants as well, “The day was an eye opener” said Huw Thomas “and this approach offers a very exciting opportunity to improve the way we interact with patients, the public and staff to generate improvements in healthcare.”

For more information on the work done at the Wales Centre for Behaviour Change see: www.behaviourscience.org where you can also find the presenters contact details. 

Publication date: 5 May 2015