The Western Regional Nutrition Leadership Network is pleased to share an article on the next-generation solutions to address adaptive challenges, the I+PSE Conceptual Framework for Action. Maternal and Child Health (MCH) nutrition leaders often face complex problems or “adaptive challenges such as obesity and diabetes, maternal weight gain, nutrition insecurity and hunger, access to health services, breastfeeding initiation and duration and, most recently, providing services to MCH clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. These adaptive challenges often present a complex situation with numerous contributors and likely too many solutions without clear choices.
This article offers a roadmap for MCH leaders, and other public health partners, to better address adaptive challenges and to formulate multidimensional strategies for optimal impact. The Individual plus Policy, System, and Environmental (I+PSE) Conceptual Framework for Action is a blueprint for MCH programs to develop and implement multidimensional strategies using a systems orientation to achieve greater responsiveness to adaptive challenges and to realize more sustainable impacts.
Tagtow A, Herman D, Cunningham-Sabo L. “Next-Generation Solutions to Address Adaptive Challenges in Dietetics Practice: The I+PSE Conceptual Framework for Action.”
J Acad Nutr Diet. 2021 Mar 11:S2212-2672(21)00065-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2021.01.018. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33715975.
INDIVIDUAL + POLICY, SYSTEMS AND ENVIRONMENTAL APPROACHES TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
This mentored TA practice includes online training modules, a tailored workbook, and coaching for MCH health professionals to acquire skill sets in developing individual and policy, systems, and environmental (I + PSE) approaches to improving healthy eating and active living practices among vulnerable MCH populations and communities. The goal of the TA effort is to develop I + PSE skills sets in teams of MCH practitioners to more comprehensively address the wicked public health problems that exist in health systems.