Introduzione sezione "Healhy Communities and Healthy Cities"

The volume documents the results of the 35th UIA/PHG International Seminar on Public Healthcare Facilities held in Dalian, China, 23-25 May 2015, as part of the more extensive conference entitled "Health for All. Cultural, Operational & Technological Influence" organized by UIA - Public Health Group - and GUPHA - Global University Program in Healthcare Architecture. The volume is divided into fourth sessions containing the contributions of members of the UIA/PHG at the conference. Contributions concerning alternative approaches tested to ensure adequate assistance for the growing spread of chronic diseases and co-morbidity in elderly people are particular stimulating. This problem, in addition to enhancing awareness of the set up of the entire system of regional public health services for an ever broader range of users, raises some questions on the characterization of spaces where environmental logistical support prevails over the true function of care.