Department of Health

Website of the Department of Health

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Public health map

The Department of Health is responsible for health protection, health improvement and health inequalities issues in England, including pandemic influenza, seasonal flu, patient safety, tobacco, obesity, drugs, sexual health, and international health.

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Health protection

Policies to improve the prevention and control of infectious diseases and other environmental threats to the health of the population.

Infectious diseases

Policies and programmes to improve prevention and control of infectious diseases.

Influenza

Policies, plans and procedures to ensure that the UK can respond effectively to an influenza pandemic, and to protect at risk groups from the harmful effects of seasonal influenza.

Health improvement

Policies addressing alcohol and substance misuse, obesity and sexual health, and the Department’s programme to reduce smoking rates in the population.

Health inequalities

Strategy to redress England’s health inequalities by narrowing the health gap between disadvantaged groups, communities and the rest of the country, and improving health overall.

Patient safety

The long term strategy for ensuring patient safety in all healthcare settings.

Scientific development and bioethics

Policy and guidance for genetic and stem cell research, consent, and information on donating a body for medical education, training or research.

Choosing Health

The Choosing Health White Paper sets out the principles for supporting the public to make healthier and more informed choices in regards to their health. This section contains policy information and publications related to, or produced as a result of, the commitments made by the White Paper.

Cosmetic surgery and non-surgical cosmetic treatments

Information to help people make an informed decision about whether or not to have surgery or non-surgical treatments.

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