What does HEA mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

The Health Education Authority (HEA) was a non-departmental public body in England which was established in 1988 by the Health and Social Services and Pensions Act. Its purpose was to provide advice on health education, to disseminate information on health promotion, and to conduct research into the efficacy of health promotion initiatives. The HEA was abolished in 2000 when its powers were transferred to other government departments.

The Health Education Authority began operations in 1988 following the passing of the Health and Social Services and Pensions Act.

The Health Education Authority provided advice on health education, as well as disseminating information on health promotion and conducting research into various health promotion initiatives.

The HEA conducted their research through published studies, surveys, reviews, interviews and focus groups. They also drew on expertise from organisations such as universities, hospitals, voluntary sector charities and local authorities.

In 2000, the Government reorganised many non-departmental public bodies including abolishing the HEA and transferring its powers elsewhere. This restructuring was done to save money as part of Tony Blair's New Labour agenda that sought to centralise many services at a national level rather than with local authorities.

Following its abolition in 2000, responsibility for aspects of health promotion previously managed by HEA were divided amongst different government departments such as Public Health England (PHE), NHS England (NHSE) and Department for Children Schools & Families (DCSF). PHE assumed responsibility for promoting healthy lifestyles while NHSE took over responsibility for providing direct healthcare services such as mental health services or GP practices. Meanwhile DCSF absorbed some of HEA's responsibilities for child welfare protection services.