B.4. Round Table: Health equity in action: how regions bridge sectors and close gaps

Abstract

Abstract   Health systems are increasingly challenged by persistent and widening inequalities in access, outcomes, and opportunities for health. Addressing these challenges requires more than incremental reforms: it calls for a redefinition of health governance, placing equity and inclusion at its core. This workshop explores how regions are emerging as key innovators in this transformation, moving beyond their traditional role as policy implementers to become drivers of integrated, forward-looking solutions. Drawing on diverse experiences from across Europe and Canada, the session will showcase how regional actors are translating health equity into concrete policies and practices. Presentations will highlight a range of complementary approaches: strengthening the capacity of health professionals through targeted training and empowerment initiatives; leveraging national legislation to support coordinated, place-based action on social inclusion; and addressing the local determinants of health through the design of healthier environments. A central theme of the workshop is the importance of collaboration across sectors and institutions. Regional experiences will demonstrate how partnerships between health systems, social services, municipalities, labour market actors, and academic institutions can be mobilised to tackle the root causes of inequalities. In particular, the example of a “joint effort for inclusion” illustrates how aligning stakeholders around shared goals—supported by dedicated funding and policy frameworks—can generate more inclusive and sustainable outcomes. The workshop will also present a real-life case of a public–private partnership aimed at facilitating healthy urban living in the new Cartesius neighbourhood in Utrecht, the Netherlands. This example highlights how healthy urban living is actively promoted through both spatial design and social programming, demonstrating the added value of integrated, place-based approaches. These approaches are closely aligned with a well-being economy perspective, which positions health, equity, and social cohesion as foundational investments for long-term and sustainable regional development. Through a combination of short presentations and interactive discussion, participants will be invited to reflect on the enabling conditions that allow regions to lead change. Key questions include: How can workforce capacity, data, and governance mechanisms be aligned to advance health equity? What models best support sustained cross-sector collaboration? And how can successful regional practices inform national and international strategies? Key messages • Regions are not just implementers but conveners of “whole-of-society” action, translating equity goals into inclusive, place-based policies. • Strong partnerships, supported by funding and aligned policies, enable regions to tackle social exclusion and reduce health inequalities effectively. Speakers/Panellists Cordell Neudorf Community Health & Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada Chiara Di Girolamo Social Innovation Area, Emilia-Romagna Region, Bologna, Italy Camilla Ihlebaek Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Aas, Norway Rosalie Hegeman UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands Ana M Carriazo Regional Ministry of Health, Presidency and Emergencies of Andalusia, Seville, Spain