| Abstract: | This article explores the concept of structured community participation in health, which refers to groups that are established by health decision-makers to provide a ‘community’ viewpoint of health issues and services. The imposed nature of this form of participation is, however, potentially problematic in that it may not ensure that the community's views arc heard. Rather, structured community participation may entrench dominant interests. Drawing on the experiences of District Health Forums in Tasmania, this article explores issues surrounding this form of participation and argues that the political context of participation must be fully understood if it is to be effective. A recognition of the differences between bureaucratic and community needs and interests is essential to the success of structured community participation. |
