Every decade, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposes objectives for the Healthy People Initiative. With 2020 being around the corner, the comment period for Healthy People 2030 objectives are now open.
Healthy People Criteria
The Federal Interagency Workgroup (FIW), led the development of Healthy People 2020. Not only does the FIW lead and guide the initiative, they have continued to provide ongoing science-based and expert consultation on future initiatives. The FIW has to follow specific criteria in selecting objectives, including:
- Measurable
- Current Baseline Data
- Be of National Importance
- Evidence-based
- Address Health Equity and Disparities
The Secretary’s Advisory Committee on National Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Objectives for 2030 will provide recommendations to Health and Human Services regarding Healthy People 2030.
Proposed Objectives Topic Areas
The objectives are organized by topic areas, ranging from Adolescent Health to Public Health Infrastructure. To view the complete list of proposed objectives for inclusion in Healthy People 2030, visit healthypeople.gov.
Public Comment on Healthy People 2030
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services encourages the public to form written comments regarding the objectives. The “public comment period” will be open from December 3, 2018 through January 17, 2019. Previous public comments helped shape and guide Healthy People 2020. So, let your voice be heard for the next decade’s initiative.
OccuMed of New England encourages everyone to provide feedback, especially on the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) objectives. The Occupational Safety and Health objectives include reducing work-related deaths, reducing work-related assaults, and many other important initiatives. We strive to improve workplace safety and health, and know that Healthy People 2030 can help make that happen.