The motion National Prevention Strategy instructs the Federal Council to draw up a comprehensive strategy for health promotion and prevention up to the year 2040. Clear objectives are to be defined and it is also to be shown how the cost/benefit ratio of planned measures can be reviewed. Specifically, the health literacy of the population is to be improved and the most effective measures are to be planned and implemented in an overarching context and within the framework of the finances already budgeted for prevention and health promotion. Notably, the cantons and health leagues should also be involved.
The motion was submitted to the National Council on 14.06.24 by Bettina Balmer of the FDP and 17 co-signatories from various parties. The key points of the motion are:
- Improving health literacy: the population should be better informed about health issues and empowered to make health-conscious decisions.
- Effective measures: The most effective health promotion and prevention measures should be planned and implemented. These measures should not incur any additional costs. Cantons and health leagues should be involved in the planning process.
- Integration of existing initiatives: The strategy should incorporate and further develop existing programs such as the national strategy for the prevention of non-communicable diseases and the national cancer plan.
- Orientation towards international guidelines: The motion proposes using international guidelines such as the National Academy of Medicine's Global Roadmap for Healthy Longevity and the WHO recommendations as a guide. These guidelines offer proven approaches and can serve as a basis for the development of an effective prevention strategy.
In view of the increasing individualization of medicine, the strategy should also highlight the boundary between feasible and affordable health promotion and prevention in Switzerland.
The National Prevention Strategy 2040 can also have an impact on people affected by Long COVID and other post-viral syndromes. Here in particular, an improvement in health literacy and more effective measures are urgently needed, and already budgeted funds must be put to better use.
By improving specialized treatment, education, rehabilitation, prevention of new infections and chronification, and continuous research, the strategy could help to mitigate the consequences of Long COVID. This would not only benefit those directly affected, but also relieve the burden on the healthcare system and mitigate the social and economic impact of the pandemic.
