Organisations

Public Health Organisations:

Public Health England:

  • Formed in April 2013 to simplify arrangements for public health.
  • Main aim is to protect and improve the nation’s health and to address inequalities.
  • Provides information to enable professionals to make decisions about local needs.

NHS (National Health Service):

  • Provides the majority of healthcare in England.
  • It is publicly funded and services are provided free at the point of use.
  • Promotes healthy living through initiatives such as “Change4Life”.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE):

  • National watchdog for work-related health, safety and disease.
  • Provides regulations and inspections to ensure employers provide safe workplaces.
  • Enforces penalties when regulations are not adhered to.

Public Health Stakeholders:

Local Authorities:

  • Responsible for the health and wellbeing of their local population.
  • Commission local health and social care services.
  • Work in partnership with other organisations to tackle health issues.

Health and Social Care Professionals:

  • Key roles include doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.
  • Contribute to public health by providing individual care and advice.
  • Play a role in preventative health and early interventions.

Charities and Voluntary Organisations:

  • Often focus on specific diseases or health concerns.
  • Provide resources, research funding and patient support.
  • Examples include Cancer Research UK and Heart UK.

Public Health Legislation:

Health and Social Care Act 2012:

  • Marked the biggest reorganisation of the NHS since its creation in 1948.
  • Aimed to give more power to clinicians and patients, reduce bureaucracy, and save money.
  • Public health functions were transferred from the NHS to local authorities.

Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984:

  • Provides powers regarding infectious diseases.
  • Covers notification and confinement of certain diseases.
  • Updated by the Health Protection (Notification) Regulations 2010.

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974:

  • Primary legislation covering occupational health and safety in the UK.
  • Employers have duties to ensure health, safety, and welfare at work.

Public Health Strategies:

The Marmot Review:

  • Strategic review of health inequalities in England post-2010.
  • Created six policy objectives to create a healthier society.

NHS Long Term Plan:

  • Creates a new service model for the 21st century including a greater focus on prevention.
  • Has a significant focus on health technology innovations.