Knowing the goal: an inclusive economy that can address the public health challenges of our time

Objective Inequality is deeply embedded in our economic structures-it is necessary to address these economic inequalities if we are to reduce health inequalities. An inclusive economic approach was conceptualised as a way to reduce these economic inequalities, although the attributes of this approach are unclear. Public health practitioners are increasingly asked to provide a health perspective on the economic recovery plans in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper aims to identify the attributes of an inclusive economy to enable the public health profession to influence an inclusive economic recovery. Approach We conducted a rapid review of grey and peer-reviewed literature to identify the attributes of an inclusive economy as currently defined in the literature. Attributes of an inclusive economy Twenty-two concepts were identified from 56 reports and articles. These were collapsed into four distinct attributes of an inclusive economy: (1) an economy that is designed to deliver inclusion and equity, (2) equitable distribution of the benefits from the economy (eg, assets, power, value), (3) equitable access to the resources needed to participate in the economy (eg, health, education), and (4) the economy operates within planetary boundaries. Conclusion As economies are (re)built following the COVID-19 pandemic, these attributes of an inclusive economy-based on the current literature-can be used to develop, and then monitor progress of, economic policy that will reduce health inequalities, improve health and mitigate against climate change.

Automated summary

It is crucial to address economic inequalities to reduce health inequalities. An inclusive economic approach is proposed to achieve this, with attributes such as designing an economy for inclusion and equity, equitable distribution of benefits, access to necessary resources, and operating within planetary boundaries. These attributes can guide economic policy post-COVID-19 to reduce health inequalities, improve health, and address climate change.