Engaging with Healthy People 2030: A Call for Public Input

by Jon Scaccia November 13, 2023

Healthy People 2030 is more than a government initiative; it’s a visionary approach towards improving the nation’s health over a decade. Since 1980, Healthy People has been setting measurable objectives to enhance public health, with each iteration refining its goals and strategies. As we enter the third decade of the 21st century, Healthy People 2030 continues this tradition, offering a framework emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention.

The Essence of Healthy People 2030

The initiative outlines a comprehensive set of objectives at the start of each decade, establishing national goals to be achieved by the end of that period. It’s a dynamic process, adapting to emerging health trends and incorporating public feedback to stay relevant. This feedback mechanism ensures that Healthy People 2030 mirrors the current public health priorities and the community’s voice.

The Call for Public Comments

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently issued a notice inviting the public to submit comments on the existing Healthy People 2030 objectives. This is an open invitation to contribute to shaping the nation’s health agenda, a rare opportunity for public voices to influence government policy directly.

How to Participate

If you’re keen to contribute, here’s what you need to know:

1. Deadline: Comments must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET, November 20, 2023.
2. Method: Send your written comments via email to HP2030Comment@hhs.gov.
3. Criteria for New Objectives: Proposals for new core, developmental, or research objectives should adhere to specific criteria outlined by the HHS.

Core Objectives

These objectives should have a reliable data source, be of national importance, have evidence-based interventions available, and help address health disparities.

Developmental Objectives

These are high-priority issues without reliable baseline data but have available evidence-based interventions.

Research Objectives

These objectives focus on areas with limited prior research but high health or economic burdens and disparities.

Why Your Voice Matters

Public input was pivotal in shaping Healthy People 2030’s current framework, goals, and objectives. Your comments and suggestions can potentially influence the health priorities for the next decade, ensuring that they reflect the real needs and concerns of communities across the nation.

A Collaborative Effort

Healthy People 2030 is the product of a collaborative process involving diverse stakeholders, including federal agencies, public health experts, and, most importantly, the public. This inclusive approach ensures a comprehensive and effective health promotion strategy.

Looking Forward

As we await the updated set of objectives, it’s clear that Healthy People 2030 is more than a set of goals; it’s a commitment to improving public health through collective effort and shared insights. Your participation is crucial in this endeavor.

Get Involved

Don’t miss this chance to make your voice heard. Submit your comments by November 20, 2023, to HP2030Comment@hhs.gov. Together, we can work towards a healthier future.

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