European Commission:

The final conference of the Joint Action on health inequalities took place 23 January, bringing together international experts on health inequalities, policy makers and a range of key (health and social) stakeholders. 

The conference intended to:

• showcase the results of the Joint Action on health inequalities ‘Equity Action’ 
• assess progress on addressing health inequalities in the EU 
• consider opportunities and priorities for action

 In his opening speech, Health Commissioner Tonio Borg underlined that differences in social and economic conditions are major drivers of inequalities in health; these health inequalities need to be reduced if smart, sustainable and inclusive growth is to be achieved. Therefore, the Commission is keen to continue its efforts to push forward the health angle within the European Semester, and redouble our efforts to ensure that health is for everybody and everywhere in the EU. 

Other speakers focused on:

• the need to continue investing in health, particularly during the times of the current economic crisis. Current challenges relate to the ageing population, the increase in chronic diseases, the high cost of technology, and problems of poverty, social exclusion and health inequalities.
• The need for integrated strategies that address the social determinants of health such as housing, environment, education and employment,
• The need for new ways to achieve partnership and ‘co-production’ with stakeholder and the general population at all levels of government to achieve social goals.
• the need for Member States to make the best use of the EU’s Investment and Structural Funds to support action to reduce health inequalities
• the important role of local and regional authorities in addressing health inequalities and illness prevention.

For more information: http://ec.europa.eu/health/social_determinants/events/ev_20140123_en.htm