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Social innovation as a key imperative in global health

We live in an increasingly complex and interconnected world; a world where social and health issues are inextricably linked. A world where complex and chronic issues demand complex, inter-sectoral, multidisciplinary, and systems-changing solutions, which can only be fueled by social innovation. Moreover, shrinking resources and increasing inequalities in a variety of social and health areas, changing regulatory and healthcare landscapes (for example, the introduction of the Affordable Care Act in the United States, or the ongoing health reform in the United Kingdom), unprecedented crises (such as the recent Ebola epidemic) demand everyone to be an innovator. The need for a strong emphasis on behavioral, social, and organizational change has perhaps never been as clear as it is or, hopefully, should be today among multiple stakeholders and countries. The concept of social innovation has been evolving over the last two decades. It encompasses not only the aforementioned increased emphasis on behavioral, social, and organizational results for all kinds of interventions, but also increased accountability (and therefore more rigorous processes for program monitoring and evaluation); and an expanded focus on the main health and social issues of our times in a way that is inclusive of vulnerable and underserved populations. By now, several professional groups and associations are dedicated to social innovation. Figure 1 is a simplification of a recent presentation I gave on this topic and illustrates my own perspective on the anatomy of this concept and emerging field. As highlighted by this figure, a few common themes emerge across the different components of this concept as well as the multiple approaches that may support innovation. While these themes may seem different, they actually speak of intersecting approaches: creating ownership (via user-centered and participatory methods to intervention and research design that are inclusive of communities, key groups and stakeholders), engagement (whether it is about patients, communities, or the general public), collaboration (across sectors and disciplines), and systems-changing strategies to address the many barriers to health and social change and improved health outcomes. Of course, this list is not all-inclusive. Since ‘so what’ is an important question in communication, I know our readers may have two questions in mind. The first is who needs social innovation? The answer is everyone!