Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is used to judge the potential health effects of a policy, programme or project on a population, particularly on vulnerable or disadvantaged groups. Recommendations are produced for decision-makers and stakeholders, with the aim of maximising the proposal’s positive health effects and minimising its negative health effects. 

 Health Impact Assessment carried as part of an environmental study includes health issues that can be measured – such as chemical and pollution exposure – while focusing less on qualitative information such as community perceptions of health issues.