SBOH 06-14

For immediate release: December 4, 2006

Contact:
Heather Boe, State Board of Health 360-236-4104

Health Disparities Council to review draft work plan

Tuesday, December 5, 10 a.m. –2:30 p.m., Heritage Room at Capital Lake, 604 Water Street, Olympia

The Governor’s Interagency Council on Health Disparities will review a proposed work plan for developing a statewide, interagency strategy for eliminating health disparities in Washington. An action plan is due by 2012. The council will also consider forms and policies for evaluations conducted at the request of the governor or a legislator to identify whether proposed policies and budgets are likely to reduce health disparities or make them worse. The council meets Tuesday, December 5, at the Heritage Room at Capital Lake in Olympia.

The term "health disparities" describes the disproportionate burden of disease, disability and death among a particular population or group when compared to the general population. The existence of serious disparities among racial and ethnic groups in Washington is well documented.

The council has 17 members: a chair appointed by the governor; representatives of 14 state agencies, boards and commissions; and two members of the public. It is staffed by the state Board of Health. In addition to creating a state action plan and consulting on health impact reviews, the council will establish advisory committees to address specific issues; make recommendations for improving the availability of culturally appropriate health literature and interpretive services; and promote communication among state agencies, communities of color, the public sector, and the private sector to address health disparities.

The Health Disparity Council Web site (www.sboh.wa.gov/hdcouncil) has more information, or contact the state Board of Health office at 360-236-4104.

The Board’s mission is to provide statewide leadership in advancing policies that protect and improve the public’s health. It does this by reviewing and monitoring the health status of all people in Washington; analyzing policies, providing guidance, and developing rules; promoting system partnerships; and encouraging public engagement in the public health system. For more information, visit the board’s Web site at www.sboh.wa.gov.