Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson presented the keynote address at AAPPO's Healthcare Industry Summit in Chicago on June 10th. Secretary Thompson acknowledged the association's legislative influence and commended President Karen Greenrose for her commitment and leadership.

One of the highlights of Secretary Thompson’s speech, and an area on which rehabilitation providers can and should be capitalizing, was encouraging healthier habits in patients. Take into consideration the following healthcare dollar amounts spent annually on a variety of chronic illnesses:

*$155 Billion on tobacco related illnesses
*$135 Billion on diabetes related illnesses
*$117 Billion on obesity related illnesses

Unquestionably, genetic predisposition is unavoidable; however, a good portion of chronic illness is “self-inflicted.” Prudent health decisions can significantly improve or sometimes completely reverse chronic symptoms. One notable quote in Secretary Thompson’s impassioned speech: “Small steps can make a big difference.” A drastic change in lifestyle is not necessary to affect positive results. He provided several basic suggestions, combined with humorous anecdotes.

Among the “small steps:”

- Play with your kids

- Take the stairs

- Promote and encourage basic activity/wellness among employees

- If taking the bus or train, get off a stop early, walk the extra block

To review Secretary Thompson’s address in its entirety, go to http://www.aappo.org/2004Summit/2004_summit_key.html