Brussels, 28/01/2014 (Agence Europe) - On 23 January, EuroHealthNet emphasised that structural and investment funds should be used to tackle persistent inequality in health systems and help deliver sustainable and quality services. EuroHealthNet represents the interests of organisations working in the public health and prevention fields. Last week in Brussels, it took part in the “Tackling Health Inequalities in 2014 and beyond” conference. The network urges political decision-makers to adopt a strategic approach that takes into account this potential. Commissioner for Health Tonio Borg stated: “We know that differences in social and economic conditions are major drivers of inequalities in health. This is why achieving the goals of the EUROPE 2020 strategy - smart, sustainable and - very importantly - inclusive growth, are essential to reduce health inequalities. We continue our efforts to push forward the health angle within the European Semester, and redouble our efforts to ensure that health is for everybody, everywhere in the EU”. Laszlo Andor, EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, said: “The persistence of health inequalities is part of a wider pattern of social deprivation and poverty. Such health inequalities are a brake on economic recovery and a barrier to meeting the EU's 2020 targets for inclusive growth and active inclusion”.
During the conference, “Equity Action” partners took stock of the current situation. Equity Action is joint action by the EU, 15 member states (plus Norway) and other organisations active in the health field, the aim of which is to reduce health inequalities. It was set up in February 2011 and its first action phase ends in February 2014. High-level speakers also shared their analysis and identified ways in which the work planned for the 2014-2020 period could help tackle health inequalities. In a manifesto addressed to health ministers, Equity Action partners underline the necessity of using structural and investment funds to reduce health inequalities. They encourage ministers to look at the lessons learned from the three years in which Equity Action has been up and running and support its action by drawing on the best practice developed in the initiative. (IL/transl.fl)