Primary prevention and early intervention are a priority for the NHS. To achieve this there needs to be a fundamental shift in attitudes, culture, activities and in resource allocation. The NHS should use its voice to help the government and the public understand how much health is dependent on factors outside of the NHS, such as stopping smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, and that attention to prevention of ill-health is needed at all stages of our life.
Targeting areas with the greatest level of need will be critical to reduce the stark health inequalities across England. And, further measures to decrease inequalities and wider causes of ill-health need to occur for true change to happen in our communities.
Health services should take a holistic approach that manages complex needs of people in mid to later life in a co-ordinated and integrated way.
