Healthy People 2020: Preview the next decade's national objectives

For three decades, the disease prevention and health promotion objectives identified by the Healthy People initiative have defined the Nation's public health priorities. As the first decade of the 21st century draws to a close, the US Department of Health and Human Services is leading the development of the next iteration of national objectives – Healthy People 2020. Drawing from lessons learned in past efforts, guidance from nationally recognized leaders serving on the Secretary's Advisory Committee on National Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Objectives for 2020, public comment and testimony received during a series of six regional meetings and via a public comment Web site, HHS is preparing to launch a new organizing framework, vision, mission and overarching goals for Health People 2020. Following the release of these critical elements, HHS in collaboration with the broad spectrum of Healthy People stakeholders will initiate the development of specific objectives, with baselines and targets. During this session, senior officials from HHS will describe the latest draft of the Healthy People 2020 and the criteria for developing specific objectives. The panelists will lead an audience discussion on how the new paradigm for Healthy People can be translated into action steps at the state, local and community levels as well as in academic, business, health care, and other settings.