The National Health Council pursues an advocacy agenda that takes full advantage of the Council's broad and diverse membership. The Council emphasizes close consultation and consensus to govern the process by which all public policy proposals and position statements are considered. Three goals guide the Council's public policy work.

• To promote quality health care for all people
  
• To promote the importance of medical research; and
  
• To promote the voluntary health movement.

The Council's Government Relations Affinity Group serves as the guiding policy body, and Issue Teams, which are open to any Council member, study issues, develop positions and recommend specific strategies for achieving the advocacy goals of the Council.

The National Health Council has established itself as a dynamic forum for policy development - where all stakeholders in the health care community can meet for reasoned discussion, effective collaboration, and persuasive advocacy.