The health of the population of NHS South Central is among the best in the country with the region having the highest life expectancy for males (79.2 years) and the second highest for females (83 years).  However, the population is growing and ageing;  it is expected that the number of people over 65 will increase by 25% by 2020.  Health inequalities remain a serious issue as there are vulnerable groups, mainly living in inner cities and isolated rural communities, who experience relatively poor health and well-being.

The SHA provides strategic leadership for health and well-being and has the following programmes in place to address the underlying causes of ill-health, improve health and reduce the inequalities in health in our region.

Reducing health inequalities: by encouraging more physical activity to reduce cardio-vascular problems and obesity; reducing levels of alcohol intake, binge drinking, smoking and illegal tobacco sales;  and improving dental health.  Areas of greatest need are targeted as well as hard-to-reach people and vulnerable groups.  For example, the NHS Health Checks programme is being rolled-out to improve the early assessment and treatment of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and diabetes among those aged 40 to 74, with a particular emphasis being placed on people living in more deprived areas where rates of vascular disease are highest.

Improving the health of the whole population: by rolling out a wide range of cancer and non-cancer screening programmes;  encouraging the uptake of immunisations and vaccinations;  promoting child health;  ensuring satisfactory safeguarding arrangements are in place for children;  improving sexual health advice and reducing teenage pregnancy rates;  improving access to health services for offenders in the criminal justice system and their families.

Protecting the public’s health: by enabling the development of a resilient local health care system that is capable of responding to emergencies and major incidents;  working with partners to reduce carbon emissions and the effects of possible environmental disasters;  and working with the Health Protection Agency to minimise the spread of communicable illnesses, such as influenza.

Developing the public health system: by demonstrating effective leadership;  sharing information and research recommendations relating to clinical best practice and effective public health interventions;  supporting the collection and analysis of data about the needs of the population;  commissioning and offering training and development of public health specialists, practitioners and the wider workforce working in the NHS, local authorities and other agencies.

During 2011/12 the public health system will transform as responsibility for public health transfers from the NHS to  local authorities.  This policy change offers opportunities to address health inequalities and improve the health and well-being of the population of NHS South Central.

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