Co-creation in public health research: an introduction to basic principles

Co-creation is a participatory design approach that leverages the experiential knowledge of non-academic actors. It is increasingly adopted in public health research to enhance the relevance, acceptability, and impact of interventions. This perspective article provides a practical introduction to co-creation, its application, and benefits and considerations for public health researchers. Based on the authors’ experiences with co-creation in public health, four key considerations for co-creation are outlined: 1) the selection of collaborators (those participating in the co-creation process) and their power dynamics and interests; 2) frameworks and guidelines for the co-creation process; 3) capacities needed to successfully apply a co-creation approach, such as emotional intelligence and adaptability; and 4) practical matters, such as resources and ethics approval. These insights serve as a practical introduction for public health researchers considering the application of co-creation in their projects to facilitate more effective and impactful, user-centered research designs and interventions.