The Basics of Public Health Brenda M Joly

The Basics of Public Health Brenda M. Joly, Ph. D Maine Center for Public Health

Overview • Format • Questions to be addressed: – What is public health? – What is a public health system? – Why take a public health approach? – Can public health make a difference?

Learner Objectives • By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to… 1. Define public health 2. List the determinants of health 3. Identify one example of local or state public health practice

What is Public Health? • Definitions vary • Key terms – Population health – Prevention

Public Health in the US ~Vision~ Healthy People in Healthy Communities ~Mission~ Promote physical and mental health and Prevent disease, injury, disability

Public Health… • Prevents epidemics and the spread of disease • Protects against environmental hazards • Responds to disasters and assists communities in recovery

Public Health… • Prevents injuries • Promotes healthy behaviors • Assures the quality and accessibility of health services

A Public Health System • Who? – Public entities – Private entities – Voluntary entities • What? – A network

The Public Health System Police EMS Community Centers MCOs Home Health Churches Corrections Health Department Parks Schools Nursing Mass Transit Philanthropist Homes Environmental Civic Groups Health CHCs Fire Tribal Health Economic Laboratory Employers Drug Mental Development Facilities Treatment Health Doctors Hospitals Elected Officials

Workforce • Diverse and Multidisciplinary • Examples… Biostatisticians Dieticians Environmental Health Specialists Behavioral Health Specialists

Core Components ASSESSMENT of the health of the community POLICY DEVELOPMENT in the public’s interest ASSURANCE of the public’s health

10 Essential Services 1. Monitor health status to identify community health problems 2. Diagnose and investigate health problems and health hazards in the community

10 Essential Services 3. Inform, educate, and empower people about health issues 4. Mobilize community partnerships to identify and solve health problems

10 Essential Services 5. Develop policies and plans that support health efforts 6. Enforce laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety

10 Essential Services 7. Link people to personnel health services and assure the provision of health care 8. Assure a competent public health and health care workforce

10 Essential Services 9. Evaluate the effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of services 10. Research for new insights and innovative solutions to health problems