Types and outcomes of health promotion interventions led by public health students: a scoping review

Abstract

BackgroundPublic health students can contribute to improving population health outcomes; however, this remains an under-researched area. This review aims to assess the extent of the literature related to health promotion interventions led by public health students. This includes what these interventions are and how they are being conducted, as well as their impact on targeted populations.MethodsA scoping review was conducted according to JBI guidelines. A search strategy was developed using the population, context, concept framework. MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase and Google Scholar were consulted. The selection process involved the screening of titles and abstracts against the inclusion criteria, followed by a full-text screening and data extraction by two reviewers. Disagreements were solved by consensus.Results191 studies were identified, but only five of these were included. The target populations included the general public, university students, and minority groups. Students were trained or supervised by experienced staff. The interventions were delivered using diverse means, including innovative approaches through social media. The student-led interventions increased access to preventive services (screening, vaccinations) and improved health knowledge within the target groups.ConclusionPublic health students make impactful contributions by increasing both the access to and the use of preventive services, as well as by promoting health knowledge. Our study contributes to the professionalisation of public health, highlighting for the first time the role of public health students in improving health outcomes. Furthermore, our study sheds light on the students’ impact on the reduction of health inequalities, particularly amongst minority groups.