The European Federation of Nurses Associations (EFN) welcomes the WHO European Region initiative on the "Health Systems Charter". In order to achieve the Health System Charter objectives, EFN calls on the Member States of WHO European Region to:
Ensure an effective Stakeholder Approach at national and European
level, involving nurses and nursing in all phases of policy-making,
implementation and analysis of impact on European citizens
Uphold the principles of the Alma Ata declaration on its 30th
anniversary. To provide universal access to health services through
primary care, in particular to address the continuing inequalities in
the burden of disease and in access to care which exists in the
European region
Provide strategic support for a qualitative and equitable health
service in Europe by developing a workforce of effective, competent,
motivated and appropriately remunerated nurses and other health
workers
Focus on socio-economic health determinants and inequalities in health
Invest in human capital by ensuring better education provision and improved levels of qualification for those working in the health
sector
Increase the salaries of nurses to keep them in the profession and eliminate pay disparities between women and men
Background information about EFN
EFN was established in 1971. EFN represents over two million nurses and is the independent voice of the profession. The mission of EFN is to safeguard the status and practice of the profession of nursing and the interests of nurses in the EU and Europe.
For further information:
WHO article: Countries start negotiating a European charter on health systems
The Tallinn Charter: Health Systems for Health and Wealth
EPHA related articles:
What role for health care systems in reducing health inequalities?
Spotlight on the European Federation of Nurses Associations (EFN)
*UPDATED* European Commission Consultation on health services
EU Health systems common values and principles recognised
