The health of the nation : a summary of the strategy for health in England / Department of Health.

  • Great Britain. Department of Health.
Date:
1992
Catalogue details

Licence: Open Government Licence

Credit: The health of the nation : a summary of the strategy for health in England / Department of Health. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    EN TRROsD Gi Gee rl OuNie Dey eels tee eee (OMe Sylivati levi (ONS felis Yak Wiel “The Health of the Nation” Green Paper, published in June 1991, stimulated an extensive public debate. More than 2,000 individuals and organisations sent in their views. Dozens of conferences, seminars and workshops were held. Newspaper and journal articles were written debating the issues raised. Of course, many different views were expressed. But one thing above all was apparent: the very wide backing which the overall strategy set out in the Green Paper attracted. There was support for the need to concentrate on health promotion as much as health care; for the need to set clear and challenging targets — and not too many of them — at which to aim; and for the need for all of us to work together. These principles are essential if we are to make further significant improvements in the health of the people. The consultation showed that the time is right for the development of a strategic approach to health. It also confirmed the opportunities which exist. The quality of the debate has revealed a common perception of what needs to be done. It has exposed the commitment which exists to make sure this is achieved. We are well placed to meet the targets set in this White Paper. If we succeed, the health of the nation will be substantially improved. The Green Paper acknowledged our debt to the World Health Organisation’s “Health For All” strategy. I was particularly heartened by the warm welcome which WHO gave to our Green Paper. Now we will build on this, in a way designed to meet the particular circumstances in this country. The priorities, the targets, the mechanisms and the action set out in this document speak for themselves. I should, however, like to emphasise four points. First, there is a commitment in this White Paper to the pursuit of ‘health’ in its widest sense, both within Government and beyond. Within Government bo