Self-care empowers consumers by giving them the knowledge and tools to improve the quality of their daily life.
Individuals can often treat minor symptoms such as a mild headache or a cold themselves, using products purchased over-the-counter at the local pharmacy or grocery store.
In the case of chronic or longer-term conditions, or to maintain and increase wellness, many people choose to use consumer health products such as vitamins.
In 2013, World Health Organization (WHO) offered an inclusive definition of self-care:
"Self-care is the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, and maintain health and to cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health-care provider."
One of CHP Australia’s key strategic objectives is to champion self-care, with the ultimate goal to gain recognition for it as an integral element of a coordinated and comprehensive national health policy. Learn more about Self-Care for a Sustainable Australian Healthcare System.
Many CHP Australia Members have products that can play a significant role in the National Health Priority Areas (NHP) both in prevention and disease state management.
