Green Party Policy on Health Care Services Justice and Sustainability in Health Care
Introduction and Values.
Introduction and Values.
1.1 This is the second of two Green Party policy documents on health. The Green Party policy on Health Promotion and Health Protection seeks to move the focus in public debate on health from the health care delivery system to the most important factors that influence the health of the population. Public policy in areas such as environment, poverty, employment, housing, education, gender equality and planning which allow people to maximise their health together with acceptance of personal responsibility for health is the aim of the Green Party.
1.2 Although the Green Party has developed distinct policy documents on Health Promotion and Protection and on Health Care Services the Party recognises that in the course of the life of a person and in day to day practice these issues are closely linked. An important element of empowering people to care for their health is the ability to choose and to access appropriate health care services when they are unwell. Health care delivery systems, in particular primary health care systems, have a vital role to play in promotion and protection of health for people. Improved population health and more effective use of primary health care allows for increased focus of technology intensive health care on those most likely to benefit and in greatest need.