Abstract:
Entering the twenty first century, the challenges facing
public health remain as daunting as in the past. The election
of a government with the policy aims of abolishing the
Health Funding Authority, incorporating its role within the
Ministry of Health, and creating District Health Boards,
provides an outstanding opportunity to re-examine the
provision of the public health function. A delivery system
needs to be shaped to convey an effective multi-agency
programme of change to improve health, reduce inequality
and build a multidisciplinary workforce, orientating health
structures to public health goals.1 This calls for a reappraisal
of the locus and role of public health professionals; their
skills, expertise and ways of working; and accountabilities.