Commission to Build a Healthier America: Recommendations and policy implications

In 2008, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) brought together the Commission to Build a Healthier America. The Commission was a national, independent, non-partisan group of leaders that came together to examine the many factors outside of medical care that influence health. The Commission researched and reviewed evidence, collected new data and listened to experts, leaders and citizens around the country. Through this work, the Commission came to the conclusion that where we live, learn, work and play has a greater impact on how long and well we live than medical care; that a person's health is greatly influenced by powerful social factors such as education, income, housing and neighborhoods. After a yearlong review, the Commission issued a report that outlined ten recommendations - practical, feasible and effective solutions often hidden in plain sight - to improve health at the local, state and federal levels. Recommendations included ensuring all children have high-quality early developmental support, becoming a smoke-free nation, and integrating safety and wellness into every aspect of community life. This session will provide an overview of the Commission's work, specifically highlighting the recommendations and policy implications, and how RWJF is leveraging the Commission's work through ongoing programming efforts.