Public health programs are extremely important, they provide communities within the state the infrastructure needed to prevent disease, combat disease, promote a healthy life style as well as prepare for and respond to acute and chronic challenges to health. Those involved in Florida public health plan and deliver services as well as developing programs designed to improve the health of the public at large.
Why is Florida public health important?
All Florida public health services are dependent on having a basic infrastructure in place. Health professionals need to be competent, have highly developed technical skills, require modern information systems and need to be in a position to properly assess the actual community health needs. There are numerous programs that include immunization, monitoring of infectious diseases, monitoring a quality water supply, injury prevention and more. This entire infrastructure is at the core of any public health system.
A strong and capable infrastructure depends on a number of organizations; primary players are the local health department as well as public health institutes. Without a well defined local and state infrastructure it would be difficult for federal agencies that rely on “on the ground” data to properly implement programs and to respond to threats to national health.
Public health infrastructure:
Public health infrastructure requires a capable workforce, modern date and information systems and the ability to assess and respond to the health needs of the public. Florida public health institutes work hand in hand with various stakeholders including health care professionals, government agencies as well as business, the academia and local communities.
Everyone involved in the provision of public health services have similar goals. These agencies are involved in educating and empowering people about all health related issues, they monitor the health status of those in the community and continuously evaluate the effectiveness of the programs and personnel.
