Creation of Center for Public Health and Medical Prevention of Moscow as a structure for population-level prevention in metropolis

Abstract

Introduction. Since 2011, Moscow has been implementing a three-level model for prevention of noncommunicable diseases. At the first (population) level, as part of interagency interaction, health authorities are developing measures to promote population's commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Aims. To provide rationale for management decision on creation of the Center for Public Health and Medical Prevention of Moscow in State Budgetary Institution “Research Institute for Healthcare Organization and Medical Management of Moscow Healthcare Department”. The goal of the Center is to develop new urban policy in improving public health based on interdepartmental interaction by providing scientific, methodological and organizational support to promote population’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Materials and methods. Authors analyzed and assessed development issues of primary prevention at the population level using open data on the Internet, statistical databases of Rosstat and Mosgorstat. Content, statistical and documentary analyses were also used. Results. Currently, Moscow puts an emphasis on prevention, and for this purpose implemented a three-tier model for prevention of non-communicable diseases. At the population level, as part of interdepartmental interaction, it is required to develop measures aimed at improving healthcare, creating a health-preserving environment in the city, and forming a commitment to a healthy lifestyle among the population. Implementation gaps to a decree have been narrowed; and health authorities have created an institution that works towards the goal of strengthening public health in Moscow, covering the entire population of Moscow, and that interacts in the interests of healthcare with government bodies, departments, media and civil society. The current situation, including challenges due to COVID-19 pandemic, required wider participation of authorities and departments, leadership of administrative districts in strengthening public health, coordination and monitoring of all business processes to improve public health. Conclusion. It has been substantiated that public participation in preventive measures is not enough. To solve the issues one should develop and implement large-scale programs and projects to improve public health with more active involvement of authorities and departments of administrative districts, consultative and methodological support, taking into account the existing territorial characteristics of administrative and municipal districts of Moscow, including improving health quality of workers.