Health Promotion A Cure for the Future Says New Book by the Association of Academic Health Centers

6/23/2003

From: Elaine R. Rubin of the Association of Academic Health Centers, 202-265-9600

WASHINGTON, June 23 -- Meeting Health Needs in the 21st Century, the newest publication of the Association of Academic Health Centers and its American Network of Health Promoting Universities, provides cutting edge information on health-promotion and disease-prevention programs, policies and practices at academic health centers and analysis of the past, present and future of the field.

The evolution of public policy is a major theme that highlights the intricate web of political, socioeconomic, and research issues that created health-promotion policy and practice. Experts describe how changing demographics, new research, and scientific advances are making health promotion and disease prevention a cornerstone of American health care. Authors -- from public health experts to foundation leaders -- recognize community involvement, private-public partnerships, and workforce collaborations as key elements in moving the health-promotion agenda forward.

Also highlighted is how academic health centers influence the adoption of health-promotion and disease-prevention conventions and innovations. "Sustainable change begins with education... the educational system must be a major change agent," says Dr. Frank B. Cerra, senior vice president for health sciences at the University of Minnesota and a member of the Board of Directors of the Association of Academic Health Centers, adding that through education academic health centers can "get involved beyond their own walls to partner effectively with communities and agencies" to promote health.

The Association of Academic Health Centers is a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of the people by advancing the leadership of academic health centers in health professions education, biomedical and health services research, and health care delivery. The American Network of Health Promoting Universities is a coalition of universities and academic institutions dedicated to increasing awareness and incorporating health promotion and disease prevention ideals and practices throughout the university and the communities it serves.

Publication of this book was supported by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Akin Gump Health Strategies and Kaludis Consulting.

To order Meeting Health Needs in the 21st Century, eds. Elaine R. Rubin, PhD, and Stacey L. Schappert, call 202-265-9600 or go to http://www.ahcnet.org.