02.12.10
NHS Alliance welcomes public health White Paper
NHS Alliancehas welcomed the Government’s new public health White Paper, Healthier Lives, Healthier People, and says it looks forward to working with the Government and Department of Health on development of these plans.
Dr Michael Dixon, NHS Alliance chair, said, “This thought-provoking document rightly states that the determinants of health are far wider then healthcare, and include housing, transport and the local economy. It rightly outlines the significant public health challenges we must meet if the NHS is to remain affordable and free at the point of use.
“Health inequalities are hard to change. To the last government’s credit, they made significant efforts, particularly around Sure Start. Most Spearhead PCTs also made positive impacts. It is heartening to see that the Coalition remains committed to this difficult but essential agenda.
“The move to put local government into a driving seat on public health directly employing directors of public health could prove very effective, as many determinants of health are within their remit. We welcome the intention to provide financial rewards for the best health improvements in the most challenged areas. ”
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