Public Health

John Bowis takes a keen interest in health issues. Before he became an MEP, John was a UK Health Minister (1993-96) and then worked on two World Health Organisation global campaigns (Nations for Mental Health and Out of the Shadows for epilepsy). Now he follows all health-related reports in the European Parliament and supports organisations raising awareness of health issues and conditions in the EU.

John guided the legislation through Parliament to create a European Centre for Disease Control to respond to health threats and emergencies. He is also the parliamentary rapporteur on mental health and patient mobility.

The EU has a responsibility to ensure a high level of human health protection in the definition and implementation of its policies and activities. The running of healthcare services is a national responsibility, but the Community can take measures to educate (health promotion), share best practice and coordinate action, particularly vis à vis communicable diseases and health emergencies.