The Role of Prevention in Health ReformAbout this Paper:Health reform legislation pending in Congress includes a significant commitment to public health and prevention. Funds could support evidence-based community, school, and workplace interventions. Taxation policies can also be used to influence behavior. Rebuilding the public health workforce and strengthening the primary care and prevention infrastructure are other core components of a "wellness" framework. It is clearly established that prevention-related interventions in both clinical and community settings can dramatically reduce disease burden and early death. Cost analyses involve more complex calculations, but here, too, the benefits are well-documented. In clinical settings, some prevention activities have immediate cost benefits while others initially increase costs, but may save money over the long term. In community settings, programs and services designed to improve physical activity and nutrition, or to reduce tobacco use, could save the nation an estimated $16 billion annually within five years. This paper reviews the case for prevention and the provisions in the pending health reform legislation that would promote good health and prevent disease. Among these are mandates to develop a national prevention strategy, dedicated funding for community initiatives, and incentives for employers and insurers. For more information about the global response, |
 |  |   |