The present era shows that there has been tremendous progress in the public health scenario. There has been considerable progress in the development of vaccines for a number of communicable diseases. Illnesses like smallpox have almost been wiped out from the world. The use of laser, microsurgery and synthetic components are on the rise.
Over the last few years, W.H.O. together with major international academic institutions has organized several consultations and seminars on the issue of public health. The future success of the public health institutions will depend largely on how academic institutions prepare health personnel to link meaningfully with other sectors and with decision-makers.
The major challenge, however, is how to produce a proper mix of health care personnel, capable of fulfilling effectively the health needs of the people. The health personnel need to be trained using a more holistic approach, including a team approach, in health care and development. Another challenge is to reorient those already in workforce with the new concepts, knowledge and skills.
Finally, global action and cooperation is a must to secure the benefits of globalisation for health for all, on ‘an equitable basis. This is essential to prevent or minimise threats to health and well being. We need to foster global public health action through full utilisation of international and intergovernmental organizations involved in health and health development. Such global public health action will include active surveillance on the global burden of disease, support for research on poverty and health, and the development of scientific norms and standards.