A Healthy Society: How a Focus on Health Can Revive Canadian Democracy

by Ryan Meili

Through a mix of scholarship and story, the author proposes a new approach to politics. The use of human health as a measure of our success as a society appeals beyond political lines to common values. By synthesizing diverse ideas into a plan for action based in the lived experiences of practitioners and patients, breaks important ground in the renewal of politics toward the goal of better lives for all Canadians. Income, education, employment, housing, the wider environment, and social supports: far more than the actions of physicians, nurses, and other health care providers, it is these determinants of health that make the greatest difference in our health. Brought to life by the stories of patient experiences, explores a number of specific health determinants, and ends in a discussion of democratic reforms that could help reshape the way we organize ourselves to create a truly healthy society.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, Health

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Nicoli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read other texts that painted a clear picture of the social determinants of health and others still which offered insights for healthy advocacy. This is the first text, however, that seamlessly discussed not only what the social determinants of health are and why they matter, but also offered a call to action accessible to all citizens of democratic societies on what we can do about it. Ryan Mieli writes with equal parts authority and humility, making his work clear, accessible and moving. I am so grateful to have come across this book and know it is one I will return to again.

[Dave Hambleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A HEALTHY SOCIETY is one of the most important books there is on health care in Canada. Its focus on the health determinants we should be concerned with if we truly want to fix our broken system offers politicians a blueprint to a happier future, a future where health care is still universal and truly accessible to all.

[Ben Harack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meili re-envisions the basis of politics as the effort to create positive health outcomes for people. This seems to provide a relatively clear vision for how domestic policy should operate. Best book I've read on Canadian politics and one of the best that I've read on politics in general.

[Kevin Mcbeath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring and informative. A great read for those wanting to improve the quality of life and standard of living in Canada and hopefully the world.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very eloquent discussion of some of the major political issues of the day. I like the idea of having a framework by which we assess and determine public policy. I like the notion of measuring success and development by the health of our communities, rather than the GDP.

We really, really need to open up the discussion on redistribution of wealth. The increasing inequality in Canada, and its impact on the well-being of our people and the community at large, needs to be addressed. But what is the prescription? More tax brackets and higher taxation of high income earners? Or something more radical? We need to do something soon. Meili argues this and recognizes repeatedly in the book that income is the major determinant of health. But he stops short of a major policy recommendation.

That said, kudos to him for such an accessible, conversational read. I especially loved the stories and anecdotes from his practice. And his acknowledgments! I know and love a great many of the people he thanked in this book.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended for anyone interested in Canadian health care, politics, and the intersection thereof.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

An accessible book on what is likely the most important issue facing Canadians today. Everyone should read it.

[Heather Woodward · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an essential introduction to the topic of public health and social determinants in Canada.

[Madelaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

2016 Book Challenge, Item #12 - A book that's under 150 pages.

If you don't know anything about population health and policy, this might be the most important book you ever read. Bravo, Dr Meili!