Calls For Fairer Health Service

Politicians from all parties must renew their commitment to tackling health inequalities if we are to create a fairer society, researchers said today.

The British Medical Journal's views come as an independent review by Professor Sir Michael Marmot is published, outlining the most effective strategies for reducing health inequalities in England from 2010.

The report called for social justice, health, and sustainability to be at the heart of all policies.

However, David Hunter, Professor of Health Policy at Durham University has questioned question whether "there is sufficient genuine and sustainable political will to tackle health inequalities".

Professor Hunter outlined three reasons for the lack of progress.

The first is a focus on individual lifestyle interventions rather than action at a governmental level.

"The response to the Marmot report must avoid this at all costs," he said.

The second is a "deep seated inability" to join up policy and delivery across government is.

The third reason for policy failure, Professor Hunter says, lies in the realm of politics.

"With the economic outlook bleak and an election looming, the temptation will be for politicians to say that we can’t afford to deal with health inequalities just yet. The imperative is to show that we can’t afford not to," he said.

Professor Hunter concluded that policy changes needed for Marmot’s recommendations to succeed can occur only if these three obstacles to progress are confronted.

"Underpinning these must be a real political commitment at all levels, because a fairer society will benefit all," he added.

(PR/GK)