04.02.14
Public health budgets ‘not being protected’
Most health decisions are being based on politics rather than evidence, public health professionals have cautioned.
A new report, published by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH), states that budgets meant to be reserved for public health are not being ring-fenced, and that financial restrictions are hurting teams’ ability to deliver health improvements.
The report, based on a survey of public health professionals, showed that just 15% believe the changes to the NHS have currently had a positive impact on health improvement outcomes, with over half doubting the potential of the new system to improve health and reduce health inequalities.
The survey also highlighted limited evidence of innovative approaches used, and “very mixed views” of health and wellbeing boards.
Shirley Cramer, CEO of the RSPH, said: “It is widely understood that the transition of public health into local authorities has great potential to provide improvements in the public’s health and particularly on health inequalities and while we recognise that it will take time for a new system to be fully functional, this report has highlighted some areas of concern.
“We want to ensure that public health remains at the top of local authority agendas if we are to make a dent in health inequality. There is clearly a risk around health improvement in local populations if the workforce do not feel they have the skills to be effective in a local authority setting.
“Training, sharing learning and effective communication are all key tools which much be promoted and encouraged to provide a environment in which the potential for public health sitting within local authorities is fulfilled and the workforce remains positive and motivated to work to improve the health of their communities.”
Dr Peter Carter, chief executive & general secretary of the RCN commented: “Local authorities are integral to making public health work. They know the needs of their residents better than anyone, and are well-placed to tackle any localised health inequalities that exist.
“However, in order for this system to work, we need to ensure that public health budgets are protected and resources diverted to the most appropriate areas. It’s very worrying news that the public health workforce believe in many instances that this just isn’t happening.
“Health and wellbeing boards should be the lynchpin of the new system, however we know there are inconsistencies in their efficacy. What we need is to see clearer guidance about how they can affect commissioning and improve public health across the country.”
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