Strategic planning is the process of determining what the health sector should be achieving in the future and how it will carry out the actions necessary to bring about those achievements. Top-level managers develop strategic plans in order to achieve their strategic goals. Usually strategic planning covers the long term and the specific actions to be taken in the next five to ten years. It is about the 'bigger picture' and it shows a 'map' of where the health sector is aiming to be in the future.

It is through strategic planning that the health sector determines its priorities and the strategies that are likely to help the nation to achieve its overall health.

When you have your strategic plan it is a good idea to put it on the wall so you can refer to it during your work. (Photo: Carrie Teicher)

Who is responsible for strategic planning?

Show answer

Strategic planning is usually done by senior managers at Ministry of Health level, or the politicians responsible for the health of entire regions. Health professionals need to be aware of strategic plans so they can implement them, but usually they won't be involved in setting out those plans in the first place.

Last modified: Wednesday, 9 July 2014, 2:35 PM