A black future in the health of the nation?

'The Health of the Nation' consultative document by the UK government promises to focus on the health of vulnerable groups, but makes little provision for blacks and ethnic minorities. The document omits any details of funding and target deadlines. It also ignores the fact that many ethnic minority patients experience poor care, due to racist treatment or lack of cultural awareness within the National Health Service (NHS). The Dept of Health's planned charter will require the NHS to respect patients' cultural and religious beliefs, and Trusts and local Health Authorities will have to prove their compliance. Minority communities are affected by genetic conditions. Ethnic origin will have to be included in NHS information systems in future, to establish levels of use of NHS services by minority groups.