Which process involves selecting and implementing actions to achieve healthcare goals?

The process of selecting and implementing actions to achieve healthcare goals is identified as planning. In this context, planning involves determining what needs to be done to meet specific health objectives, as well as outlining the immediate and long-term actions needed to get there. This phase typically includes setting measurable goals and interventions based on the assessed needs of the population or community.

The planning stage is crucial because it lays the groundwork for effective interventions and resource allocation, aligning all efforts towards a shared healthcare goal. A thoughtful and organized plan increases the likelihood of successful health outcomes by ensuring that actions are targeted and based on a comprehensive understanding of the community's needs.

The assessment stage precedes planning and focuses on gathering and analyzing data about the community's health needs. While evaluation pertains to assessing the effectiveness of the interventions after they have been implemented, intervention refers to the actual actions taken based on the plan. Therefore, planning is the vital step that occurs after assessment and before intervention, making it integral to achieving healthcare goals efficiently and effectively.