Policy

Everybody deserves a chance to be healthy. BCAHL works to advance and support health-promoting policies, environments, programs and services so that British Columbians have more opportunities to be healthier.

BCAHL’s policy agenda centers on efforts that address the common risk factors of chronic disease and underlying determinants that contribute significantly to cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes.

BCAHL has four evidence-based papers that inform our policy work:

• On the Path to Better Health (2014) examines BC trends in chronic disease over the past decade and outlines future opportunities for prevention.
• Leading BC Towards a Healthier Future (2010) provides an overview of the lessons learned by BCAHL.
• Healthy Futures for BC Families (2009) highlights policy options that address the underlying social determinants of health (early childhood development, education, housing, supportive environments, income and food security) and health inequities.
• The Winning Legacy, A Plan for Improving the Health of British Columbians (2005) outlines interventions that address the common risk factors of chronic disease (physical inactivity, poor dietary habits, tobacco use, obesity).

In addition to these foundational papers BCAHL also regularly produces submissions and policy position statements which are listed below.

• Alcohol as a Risk Factor for Chronic Disease
• Disadvantaged Populations
• Early Childhood Development
• Health Inequities and Whole of Society Approach
• Healthy Eating and Food Security
• Housing
• Income Security
• Physical Activity and Built/Supportive Environments
• Healthy Schools, Education and Literacy
• Tobacco Reduction and E-Cigarettes
• Transportation

Through government relations, BCAHL advances healthy public policy; we are working with government and holding them accountable to promote wellness and prevent chronic disease.

We have much to be proud of. The BC Government has made substantive progress since BCAHL first formed in 2003. Nevertheless, there are challenges ahead if BC is to narrow the large gap between the healthiest British Columbians and those who suffer from ill health.

We look forward to continuing our work with government and other stakeholders on making British Columbia a healthier place for all.