For all the medical breakthroughs we have seen in the past century, we still see significant disparities in the medical conditions of racial groups in this country. It is important to note here that eliminating disparities is not a zero sum game . We are not taking anything from anyone when we ensure everyone's good health. We know that the entire nation benefits when we protect the health of those most vulnerable and at risk. The Public Health Services was founded on this premise 200 years ago.
Life is full of golden opportunities carefully disguised as irresolvable problems.
We believe that the development of meaningful partnerships is key. That includes partnerships with faith-based organizations, civic clubs, local private or public groups and so on. This public comment period is an opportunity to start the synergy among public, private, and public-private organizations and individuals. We're all in this together, and if we are to succeed it will be based on all of our efforts. Let me suggest that states use Public Health Week in April 2000 as a time to release their own versions of Healthy People 2010.