The State will look at how to improve health, reduce inequalities and reduce the cost to the health system, writes MARTIN WALL
THE GOVERNMENT is to carry out a review of public health policy with a view to developing a new policy framework in this area over the months ahead.
The review, which was authorised by the Cabinet last week, will “describe the approaches and priority objectives and actions needed to protect and improve health, reduce inequalities and reduce the cost burden of non-communicable diseases on the health system”.
The Minister for Health, James Reilly, will host a national consultation day in Dublin next Monday at which a number of international experts in the field of public health will speak.
The aim is to develop a high-level policy framework for public health which will run from next year to 2020, according to a Department of Health briefing document.
“The policy framework will be Ireland’s vision for a healthier population that is protected from public health threats, living in a healthier and more sustainable environment, with increased social and economic productivity and greater social inclusion,” it says.
The document says the review will seek to engage leaders and policy-makers across the Government and society, “to recognise that, because many of the causes of health and wellbeing lie outside the health sector, improving the public’s health is the responsibility of all sectors of society, and not just the responsibility of the health service public health workforce”.
The idea is to take a holistic approach. “It will identify practical ways to strengthen working between sectors to promote and protect the health and wellbeing of all sectors in our society. It will support ways to keep children healthy; ensure a healthier workforce; and contribute to positive ageing and a greater participation of those with disabilities and mental health issues in society,” the report continues.
“It will promote healthier lifestyles as well as improving the environment where we live and work, will address the emergence of risk factors and aim to reduce chronic diseases and their burden to families and society.”
The policy will also look at what has worked thus far. “It will highlight achievements of public health policies to date such as reducing the mortality and morbidity from communicable diseases through vaccination, providing clean water and air, providing safer food, and control of tobacco in workplaces.
“In addition, the framework will summarise the growing evidence that supports a public health approach to improving health, and the economic and societal benefits of prevention and early intervention.”
The Department of Health envisages that an initial draft report will be drawn up by the end of September with a view to having proposals ready for the Cabinet before Christmas.