Making Health Public: A Manifesto for a New Social Contract

The UK is facing a public health crisis, with life expectancy stagnating, health inequalities widening, obesity and alcohol misuse placing a strain on health services, and urban air pollution being a serious health hazard. COVID-19 has revealed the weaknesses of the UK's public health system, and this book examines the organisational and political barriers to an effective system and urges a new social contract in which health policy is truly public.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The UK is currently facing a severe public health crisis that has resulted in a range of concerning trends. While life expectancy has previously shown improvements, it has now stagnated, leading to widening health inequalities. The prevalence of obesity and alcohol misuse is placing an immense strain on healthcare services, and urban air pollution has been widely recognized as a significant health hazard. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exposed the weaknesses of the UK's public health system, which was once considered one of the best in the world.

In response to these challenges, this book aims to examine the organizational and political barriers that hinder the development of an effective public health system in the UK. It emphasizes the need for a new social contract, where health policy is truly public and serves the well-being of all citizens.

One of the key barriers identified in the book is the lack of coordination and collaboration between different government departments and agencies responsible for public health. This fragmentation leads to siloed approaches and a lack of holistic policymaking. The book suggests that a more integrated and coordinated approach is necessary to address the complex health challenges facing the UK.

Another barrier highlighted is the influence of private sector interests on public health policy. The book argues that the commercialization of healthcare and the pursuit of profit can undermine the public's interest and lead to policies that prioritize the interests of corporations over the health of individuals. It calls for greater transparency and accountability in the healthcare industry to ensure that public health decisions are made in the best interests of the public.

Political polarization and ideological differences also play a role in hindering the development of an effective public health system. The book argues that the political agenda is often driven by short-term considerations rather than long-term public health goals. It calls for a more bipartisan approach to policymaking, where politicians from different parties work together to address the health needs of the population.

Furthermore, the book explores the role of education and awareness in promoting public health. It argues that a lack of knowledge and understanding about health risks and preventive measures can contribute to poor health outcomes. It calls for increased education and awareness campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent the spread of diseases.

To overcome these barriers, the book suggests a range of policy interventions. These include investing in public health infrastructure, such as hospitals and clinics, to improve access to healthcare services. It also calls for the implementation of policies that promote healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco control to address the root causes of health problems.

Additionally, the book advocates for greater transparency and accountability in the healthcare industry to ensure that public health decisions are made in the best interests of the public. It suggests the establishment of independent public health bodies to oversee and regulate the healthcare sector.

Furthermore, the book emphasizes the importance of engaging the public in policymaking processes to ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed. It calls for the development of citizen-led initiatives and participatory decision-making processes to involve citizens in the development and implementation of public health policies.

In conclusion, the UK is facing a severe public health crisis that requires urgent action. This book examines the organizational and political barriers that hinder the development of an effective public health system and proposes a range of policy interventions to address these challenges. By adopting a more integrated and coordinated approach, promoting transparency and accountability, and engaging the public in policymaking processes, the UK can work towards building a healthier and more equitable society.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447371267