Healthy People 2020 is a program developed by the government and launched in November 2010. It was designed to improve the health of the population nationally over the next ten years. The three primary goals of Healthy People 2020 are: enabling Americans to lead healthier lives, eliminating health care disparities, and providing preventative health services to all. To lead a healthier life, individuals should be aware of their existing personal illnesses/diseases and treat health problems appropriately through medications, frequent laboratory work, and follow-up appointments with doctors. state of health. The Healthy People 2020 website is informative and if used correctly, a person can research a number of different topics on how to improve/manage their health. Accessibility to health services is a nationwide problem. Healthy People 2020 strives to achieve equality nationwide, regardless of race; age, sex, existing illnesses and socio-economic status. Prevention services have a high priority for people who want to improve their health. Prevention is the best way to avoid disease, but as stated on the website, “the absence of disease does not automatically equate to good health” (“Disparities,” 2010, paragraph 6). Healthy People 2020 provided information to individuals to help them find ways to achieve the best level of health for all. Some topics that can be found are links on nutrition, daily activity, community resources, managing existing conditions, safe housing, and health insurance. As a nurse working in an acute behavioral health unit, substance abuse is often an issue with my patient. ..... middle of paper ......d them for no longer being able to drive due to a suspended license. In cases like this, fortunately, St. Joseph Hospital's outpatient program provides transportation for those in need. Some insurance companies will also provide transportation to and from the necessary treatment. Healthy People 2020 has ambitious goals for individuals nationwide. The government strives to ensure equality of health care for all, regardless of race, age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. With this website, individuals have the tools they need to be able to manage existing health issues and position themselves to prevent disease. It is up to the individual to be proactive and use whatever is available to them. Healthy People 2020 is a good place for citizens across the country to start looking at how to become healthier in all aspects of their lives, both physically and mentally..