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As a nation, our excess pounds are creating excess costs. Find out what obesity is costing your state today, and if trends continue, what it may cost in the future.
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Healthy Actions Center 
ELECTED OFFICIALS

Mobilize resources today to improve America`s health tomorrow


As our nation wrestles with a variety of public policy issues, pressures placed on our public officials continue to intensify. But this also is the time when your role can be most rewarding. Our country is at a critical crossroads where we need to take decisive action to reverse alarming health statistics in areas such as obesity and smoking. Beginning today, public health partners are asking you to more actively advocate for policies that discourage unhealthy behaviors while expanding access to quality health care.

How can I help all citizens gain access to quality health care?

Health reform agenda proposal
American Public Health Association

Health reform recommendations
Partnership for Prevention

Health reform policy recommendations
Mayo Clinic
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Which legislative policy decisions really impact public health?

Steps to making sound health policy decisions
National Governors Association

Recommendations for controlling chronic disease
Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease

Tips for creating a tobacco control program
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  

More...

What are some effective ways to use taxation to change behavior?

Overview of federal tax increase on cigarettes
Institute of Medicine of the National Academies

Recommendations to increase alcohol sales tax to prevent excessive use
Centers for Disease Control

Alcohol prevention and reduction policy recommendations
Boston University School of Public Health

More...

How can I better promote children`s health improvements?

Strategies to promote children`s mental health screening
Children`s Defense Fund

Policy-driven incentives for long-term health and nutrition improvements
American Public Health Association

Youth wellness policy development steps
Action for Healthy Kids Initiative

More...

How can I promote healthier, safer communities?

State obesity prevention and control case studies
New York State Department of Health 

State obesity prevention and control case studies
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

Guide to create safer and healthier communities
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
More...

What resources do my peers recommend?

Calculate what physical inactivity is costing your state
East Carolina University

Health policy advocacy guide for routine vaccinations
Council of State Governors


Will it work for my constituents?


As you assess the Healthy Actions resources provided, consider the following:

1. Is it logical? Based on your past experiences and constituency culture, does the approach make sense? Is the intervention likely to be acceptable within your environment?

2. Is it doable? Considering available resources, can you see yourself, fellow committee members or other stakeholders committing to do what it takes to make the solution work?

3. Does it address barriers to action? Does it help you overcome challenges to advocating for health?

4. Is it flexible? Does the resource or program provide a basic framework that can be customized based on the needs of your state and constituencies?

5. Is it measurable? Do the program outcomes reflect metrics that your fellow committee members, task force leadership and legislative staff will understand and value?

View all Healthy Actions resources

   
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American Public Health Association Partnership for Prevention