Social Determinants of Health Group III B

Problem Statement There is no coherent set of principles to guide the design and implementation of policies that impact health

Rationale The lack of these principles can contribute to the perpetuation of health disparities

Proposed Solution Change the way policies get made by legislators at the state and federal level, such that policies: –Are transparent –Match their intent to impact –Incorporate evaluation –Incorporate accountability –Are just and fair

Transparency All good policies are transparent such that: –They use plain language –Have clearly articulated intent –Are communicated to affected populations with a mechanism for feedback

Intent and Impact All good policy has a direct relationship between policy design, articulated intent and anticipated impact.

Evaluation All good policy is designed in such a way that its impact can be measured in a credible way: –Metrics must be specific, appropriate, defined in advance, reportable and demonstrate awareness of alternative consequences. –Evaluation must be continuing and responsive throughout the life of the policy.

Accountability All good policy includes clearly defined parties responsible for its management and periodic review.

Justice All good policies are just, fair and inclusive, with special attention to vulnerable populations.

Stakeholders (oppose/support) Executive Branch Legislative Branch Interest Groups (Trade Associations/Advocacy Groups) Vulnerable Populations Voters

Plan of Action Generate white paper on principles for public dissemination Create a checklist of principles Increase awareness and utilization Set in motion a process to institutionalize its use

Acknowledgements Thank you to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation for allowing us to participate in this conference and to Rick Erdmann for his facilitation of our “maverick” small group.