Special Interest Groups

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are a core component of PHASA’s identity as a member-driven organization.

They are multidisciplinary groups comprised of researchers, civil society organizations, decision-makers and implementers and they provide a platform for membership interaction and the exchange of experiences around particular issues in health systems research.

The SIGs have all been approved by PHASA Board.

How does one join an existing SIG?

If you are not an existing member of PHASA, please join PHASA. For existing members, log in and update those details on your profile.

Climate, Energy and Health

A diverse network of practitioners, researchers, decision‑makers and advocates collaborates to address the health impacts of climate change and fossil fuels. By connecting experts across disciplines, we advance evidence-based policy, promote clean energy, and strengthen resilience against rising temperatures, extreme weather, pollution, and the growing burden of climate‑related disease.

Dental Public Health

The Dental Public Health SIG is a forum for professional exchange of knowledge within a multi-disciplinary context. Activities involve engagement in dental public health issues, research and career development. It further aims to create awareness of oral health issues in public health and to contribute to adding value to the public health system and oral health programmes in the country.

Health Information and Technology

SIG Health Information and Technology
The Health Information and Technology SIG promotes impactful technologies that advance public health. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, it brings together people committed to improving lives. Current focus areas include healthcare delivery, NGO capacity building, disability technologies, emergency medicine, health education and user experience, driving innovation that strengthens health systems and community well being.

Health Policy and System Research

Health Policy and Systems Research examines how health systems operate and how policies influence care, equity and outcomes. By integrating insights from multiple disciplines, it supports stronger decision‑making, more resilient systems and better health for communities. HPSR helps identify gaps, guide reforms and ensure policies truly meet people’s needs.

Health Promotion

The Health Promotion SIG aims to strengthen advocacy for health promotion by supporting progressive policy development, advancing research, and encouraging collaboration across sectors. Its mission is to champion initiatives that foster a healthier population in South Africa and inspire global efforts toward equitable, sustainable well‑being for all.

Healthcare Quality and Safety

The Healthcare Quality and Safety SIG promotes patient‑centred care, stronger safety practices and evidence‑informed policy. By connecting public health professionals, researchers and civil society, it advances collaboration, builds capacity and supports patient involvement in monitoring care. Through dialogue, research and advocacy, the SIG drives improvements in healthcare quality and safety.

Occupational & Environmental Health

Occupational and Environmental Health addresses the risks people face at work and in their surroundings, from pollution and chemical exposure to unsafe conditions and climate‑related hazards. By advancing research, prevention and policy, this field protects workers, strengthens communities and promotes healthier environments that support long‑term well being and safety.

Public Mental Health

Public Mental Health works to improve wellbeing by addressing the social and environmental factors that shape mental health. Through prevention, early support and equitable access to care, it strengthens communities, reduces disparities and promotes resilience. This field helps create environments where people can thrive mentally, socially and emotionally.