Prevention Policies are Interrelated between Federal, State, Local and Tribal Agencies

Native News Network Staff in Native Health. Discussion »

WASHINGTON - Federal, state, local and tribal prevention policies are interrelated according to the National Prevention Strategy released yesterday by the Obama administration.

Good Health Comes from Receiving Quality Medical Care, Clean Air and Water, Safe Worksites and Healthy Foods

The National Prevention Strategy is a comprehensive look at what contributes to improvement of health for Americans, particularly those things that are deemed preventable, such as eating healthy and increasing exercise.

Among American Indians and Alaska Natives, the Strategy listed alcohol-related death as being six times the national average.

The National Prevention Strategy recognizes that good health comes not just from receiving quality medical care, but also from clean air and water, safe worksites and healthy foods. The strategy was developed by the National Prevention Council, which is composed of 17 federal agencies who consulted with outside experts and stakeholders.

"This National Prevention Strategy, called for under the Affordable Care Act, will help us transform our health care system away from a focus on sickness and disease to a focus on prevention and wellness," said Secretary Sebelius. "We know that prevention helps people live long and productive lives and can help combat rising healthcare costs."

"Helping Americans live more healthful lives is a top priority for the Obama Administration," said DPC Director Melody Barnes. "The National Prevention Strategy is a road map to help us achieve that goal, and will help public and private partners come together to build healthier communities using evidence-based strategies that we know work."

The National Prevention Strategy includes actions that public and private partners can take to help Americans stay healthy and fit and improve our nation's prosperity. The strategy outlines four strategic directions that, together, are fundamental to improving the nation's health. Those four strategic directions are:

Building Healthy and Safe Community Environments: Prevention of disease starts in our communities and at home; not just in the doctor's office.

Expanding Quality Preventive Services in Both Clinical and Community Settings: When people receive preventive care, such as immunizations and cancer screenings, they have better health and lower health care costs.

Empowering People to Make Healthy Choices: When people have access to actionable and easy-to-understand information and resources, they are empowered to make healthier choices.

Eliminating Health Disparities: By eliminating disparities in achieving and maintaining health, we can help improve quality of life for all Americans.

"As a family physician, I understand the importance of stopping disease before it starts," said Surgeon General Regina Benjamin. "The leadership of this council and the strategy will help us create a healthy and fit nation by making prevention a part of our daily lives."

posted June 17, 2011 9:47 am et