Health targets in Finnish national health policy

Precise health targets have never been an important part of the national health policy in Finland. The Finnish HFA 2000 strategy document included some quantitative targets but their role was not to guide policy but, instead, to illustrate the general aims of the strategy and show the anticipated effects of planned policy. The Finnish HFA 21 strategy, which is under preparation, may include a few targets covering major public health problems and facilitate action over a wide area. High quality health targets should be established and key methods implemented in order for those targets to be reached.