The new Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has launched.
The government body will be led by the new Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO) for England, Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy, and will aim to reduce health inequities and combat some of the top health risk factors, such as obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption.
Previously, Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy was the Chair of the London Association of Directors of Public Health, and is currently President of the Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH), the Director of Population Health at Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council and Chair of the Greater Manchester Association of Directors of Public Health. She will be stepping down from these roles to become the new DCMO.
Structurally, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities will be part of the Department of Health and Social Care and will advise the government on the prevention agenda.
Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid said: “The pandemic has laid bare the health disparities we face not only as a country, but as communities and individuals. This must change and this body marks a new era of preventative healthcare to help people live healthier, happier and longer lives.
“The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities will be the driving force across government, supported by communities, academics, industry and employers, to level up the health of our nation, which will reduce the pressure on our NHS and care services.”
To find out more, view the news announcement from the Government here.
