Government Reaffirms Commitment to Health Goals

The province renewed its commitment to Nova Scotia's health goals at a ceremony today attended by Premier John Hamm, Health Minister Jamie Muir, Barbara Hart, chair of the Provincial Health Council, and other council members.

"This government is firmly committed to achieving the health goals established by the Provincial Health Council," said Premier Hamm. "Today's ceremony marks a renewed emphasis on these important goals and our support for the ongoing work of the council."

The council developed Nova Scotia's health goals through broad public consultation. The goals were endorsed by the government in 1992, but lapsed when the council became dormant.

Mr. Muir acknowledges that Nova Scotia's health goals recognize the fact that health is affected by many factors beyond the scope of a traditional health care system.

"These goals highlight the need to address the wide range of social, legal and economic issues which can affect the health of Nova Scotians," said Mr. Muir.

Mrs. Hart said the Provincial Health Council is encouraged by the decision. "We are certainly pleased that the government has seen fit to reaffirm the health goals, and it is on the health goals that we have planned our strategy for the future."

Nova Scotia's health goals focus on these areas:

• promoting and improving the health of all Nova Scotians
• making Nova Scotia a safe and healthy place to live
• supporting the efforts of individuals, families and communities to lead healthy lives
• ensuring that the resources needed to support health care are
  managed wisely and fairly
• involving Nova Scotians in decisions affecting health
• ensuring that all Nova Scotians have the opportunity to achieve health

kjd November 3, 1999