This achievement is significant because it is a stellar example of what all agencies need to do to meet the requirements of the Government Performance and Results Act which mandates that all federally funded programs create the means to address defined needs and achieve measureable outcomes. We have to be able to get better close-ups in individual communities or counties to uncover unmet needs. In a health care environment of complex, competing priorities, you will be asked time and again to justify the dollars you spend. Developing more reliable data will allow you to measure outcomes more accurately and identify those areas that need more attention. You must build from a body of knowledge shaped by data and good science.
Dollars follow data.
Armed with good, accurate data, you will be in the best position possible to go to your state legislatures and make the case for what you need to get the job done in your state. Healthy People 2010, which we will launch in January, and its predecessor HP2000, are excellent examples of the good that comes from realistic goal setting and measurement. No doubt, the road ahead is full of uncertainty and challenge, but it is also filled with promise. And I am very optimistic about our chance of succeeding in the 21 st century. First, we must insist on being at the table when key decisions are being made that impact the health of our communities.