Does a policy matter? Assessing the Finnish health policy in relation to its equity goals

Authors: Sihto M.; Ki I.K.A.

Source: Critical Public Health, Volume 10, Number 2, 1 June 2000 , pp. 273-286(14)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

Health differences in Finland, in terms of mortality, are the second largest among Western European countries. This is the case in spite of egalitarian social policy efforts and other health policy responses by the government. In addition, the Finnish Health for All (HFA) policy programmes pay attention to inequality in health. The two main aims of the Finnish HFA policy have been the best possible level of health for the population (the level target) and the reduction and elimination of differences in health between population groups (the distribution target). In the health policy programme discourse concerning the distribution target, it is stressed that when goals are set and action is considered, it is necessary to put special emphasis on the reduction of differences between population groups and, in particular, on the fact that measures are to be directed primarily at those groups where the problems and risks are greatest. This article aims to describe the long historical tradition of Finnish social and health policy related to the equity goal. Additionally it outlines factors and explores reasons why different policy programmes do not seem to lead to successful outcomes in terms of equity.

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Health Services Research Unit, National Research and Development Centre for Welfare and Health Services (STAKES), Helsinki, Finland

Publication date: 2000-06-01

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