Why a new Population Health Framework, to be accompanied by concrete cross government actions, clearer implementation plans and a monitoring and evaluation framework is needed.
As we understand it, a monitoring and evaluation strategy will soon follow (there are workshops already set up for this purpose, which we will be participating in). While this is good news, monitoring and evaluation ideally need to be part of policy design, alongside implementation planning, rather than something that is considered later. This would ensure, for example, that actions are not only achievable but also measurable. Whilst it is difficult not to see this framework as a missed opportunity, there has been significant time and energy contributed from officials and stakeholders over the last year. Ultimately, the way that the Scottish Government is structured—and the absence of mechanisms to support whole-of-government approaches across all levels and policy areas— remains a fundamental barrier to delivering the change in approach that the evidence review makes clear is required. This isn’t inevitable, but it is disappointing that, for an issue as vital as the population’s health, a more collective approach could not be achieved. It’s interesting that the new Public Service Reform strategy, released by the Scottish Government 2 days after the PHF, echoes much of the change that is needed and sets out an intention to change this, including clearer leadership, more accountability and budget processes that enable preventative spend. Delivering the aims of the Population Health Framework could offer a powerful early test of whether this reform agenda can deliver real change in practice.