To develop a comprehensive list of prevention policies, Partnership interviewed dozens of experts, searched the public health literature for evidence of policy effectiveness, and built a catalog of more than 200 policy options. A prestigious advisory committee used available information from experts and published evidence to narrow the list to nine highest-impact polices. This Committee on Clinical Preventive Service Priorities is using criteria such as the burden of disease addressed by the service, the strength of evidence about the effectiveness of the service, and cost-effectiveness information to develop its recommendations. In 2000 Partnership begins a four-year project to involve businesses in meeting the national health objectives set forth in Healthy People 2010 . This new alliance will create a program recognizing business investment in prevention and wellness, facilitate forums for businesses to exchange ideas, and provide technical assistance to state and local Healthy People coalitions to help them involve local businesses in health promotion efforts.
Partnership plans to emphasize the needs and unique contributions of small and midsize businesses.
The council also educated business leaders about prevention issues and made businesses more effective advocates for prevention. The coalition undertakes such activities as sponsoring educational forums and briefings on prevention issues, disseminating educational materials to Members, leading letter sign-on campaigns in support of effective prevention policies, organizing floor activities, and testifying at committee hearings about the role of prevention strategies. Partnership surveyed employers about their coverage of preventive services. When survey results indicated that many employers do not buy preventive services of proven effectiveness, Partnership convened a roundtable of business leaders, health policy experts, and managed care executives to discuss recommendations for improving coverage rates. It's a Good Business Decision.