Upstream Prevention

Upstream Prevention aims to prevent public health problems before they occur by optimizing the physical, economic, and social factors that shape communities’ health. As an approach, upstream prevention leads to better and more lasting outcomes. The following resources are intended to assist public health professionals with implementing upstream prevention programs.

For information on receiving training and technical assistance from IPS to support your upstream prevention programs, please contact us.

Webinars

IPS’ free webinar series provides learned insights into how to effectively lead upstream prevention programs.

Upstream Prevention Demystified

The term “upstream prevention” – like “population-level prevention” and “systems change” – has become ubiquitous in public health. Yet, its true meaning can remain elusive. In this webinar, we explore the nuanced dimensions of upstream prevention and review strategies for integrating upstream approaches into community work, paving the way for more impactful public health strategies.

Watch webinar >

Advancing Social Change through Logic Models

Logic models provide a framework for problem-solving in upstream prevention projects. However, they are often developed and used primarily for research and evaluation purposes. In this webinar, we provide practical support for creating and using logic models at every stage of public health campaigns, policy advocacy efforts, and community change projects.

Watch webinar >

ACTing for Equity: A Real-World Primer for Advancing Equity in Communities

Socioeconomic, cultural, and racial inequities are at the root of most disparities in health, wealth, and opportunity. In this webinar, we introduce IPS’s Approach to Community Transformation (ACT) Model as a framework for integrating equity into programs by engaging in community-led planning, building community power, and supporting community-driven decision making.

Watch webinar >

Tools

IPS’ upstream prevention tools are designed to assist providers in the field with implementing programs that improve health, safety, and well-being at a community level. For more of IPS’ upstream prevention tools, please contact us.

IPS’ ACT Model

IPS’ Approach to Community Transformation (ACT) Model combines six components that strategically intersect to achieve community-level change.
Download tool >

Upstream Prevention Planning Template

A planning framework for implementing an upstream prevention campaign using the ACT Model.
Download tool >

Hot Topics

Our IPS-authored Hot Topics provide perspectives on important national conversations happening around upstream prevention.

Unleashing the Power of Prevention: Looking Forward, Public Policy is the Answer to High Health Care Costs

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That statement, submitted by Benjamin Franklin to the citizens of Philadelphia in 1736, was originally a warning to be vigilant about…
Read More >

Group of community advocates banning together

Creating a Prevention Campaign That Works

Lessons learned from tobacco control hold value for future efforts…
Read More >