Healthy Canadians: A Healthier World

Public health is the foundation of a prosperous society The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) serves to promote and protect the health of Canadians. As the federal government’s lead on public health, PHAC pursues a vision of healthy Canadians and communities in a healthier world. PHAC is led by the Chief Public Health Officer, who reports to and advises the Minister of Health and communicates with Canadians on public health matters. Public health asks two questions: What are the causes of poor health? How do we address those causes before they become problems?

A strong public health system saves lives

Our goal is to help Canadians achieve and maintain physical and mental wellness, and to protect them from ongoing and future health threats. The good health of our country concerns us all—individuals, families, communities, health professionals and governments. At the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), we prepare for national public health emergencies. We explore the causes of and work to prevent disease and injury. We also work to raise awareness of the fundamental causes of poor health such as poverty, access to health care, the environment and continuing inequalities in health.

PHAC works at local, regional, national and international levels to build an effective national public health system and advance the knowledge that keeps Canadians healthy. PHAC works closely with the World Health Organization, and we participate in and support partnerships with the Pan-Canadian Health Network, the National Collaborating Centres for Public Health, provincial and territorial governments, and other international and non-governmental organizations. PHAC’s regional presence ensures leadership and coordinated action across the country.

PHAC origins

In March 2003, SARS struck Canada, with Toronto taking the brunt of the impact. The outbreak highlighted some of the strengths and weaknesses of the Canadian public health system and reminded us that infections ignore borders, defy jurisdictions and can cross the world with the speed of a passenger jet.

Canada’s response: In September 2004, PHAC was established to strengthen public health in Canada.

Our mission

To promote and protect the health of Canadians.

Public health is society’s organized effort to keep people healthy. While healthcare concentrates on the medical needs of individuals, public health addresses the well being of communities and the population as a whole.