Public Health Renewal in BC

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Public Health Renewal in BC

Commitment to Public Health

  • Recent events (e.g. SARS) have outlined the need for an effective public health system.
  • The provincial government has shown an increasing commitment to public health as a means to improve health outcomes, and build a sustainable health system.
  • This commitment is in line with current federal government initiatives.

Federal Commitment

  • Public Health Agency of Canada
  • Chief Public Health Officer
  • Health Goals for Canada
  • Pan-Canadian Public Health Network

The Future of Public Health in Canada

  • 2003 report on state of Canada’s public health system by Canadian Institutes of Health Research
  • Key infrastructure elements of a public health system:
    • Clearly defined essential functions
    • Defined roles/responsibilities at each level
    • Consistent, modern legislation
    • Appropriate delivery structures
    • Appropriate funding levels
    • Appropriate numbers of well-trained staff
    • Information systems to support assessment & surveillance
    • Access to expertise and support
    • Accountability mechanisms

The Future of Public Health in Canada

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