New framework for public health improvements outlined

The Department of Health has unveiled a new framework for measuring progress on improving public health, for use by local councils.

Coinciding with the imminent devolution of more power to local authorities on healthcare initiatives, the government has outlined 66 health measures that will be used to track how well patient requirements are being met by services.

Among the measurable criteria will be cancer prevention, cutting tooth decay, reducing the average weight of patients, combating smoking habits and reducing mortalities from heart disease and stroke.

Councils will be allocated a ring-fenced budget of around 5.2 billion pounds a year from April 2013 to dedicate towards these goals, with those making the most improvements to receive further cash incentives.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley said: "Every area of the country is different so councils will be able to decide what the most important public health concern is for them and spend the money appropriately."

This comes after a new 100 million pound funding commitment was allocated for local clinical commissioning groups earlier this month.