For the next newsletter, you have been asked to provide information about the role of government in public health.
Choose a health issue prevalent in your community.
Research national, state, and local government health agency websites for information on your chosen health issue.
Write a 700- to 1,050-word summary of your findings. Your summary should:
- Analyze the structure and function of public health at national, state, and local levels. In your analysis, include:
- What type of structure you see between levels of government
- What functions you see at each level of government
- How the levels of government work together
Use specific examples from your research to validate your points.
Include at least 3 references.
Format your assignment according to APA guidelines.
Submit your assignment.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
This assignment requires a summary of the role of government in public health, focusing on a prevalent health issue in the community. The analysis will examine the structure and function of public health at national, state, and local levels. The assignment will use specific examples from government health agency websites and include at least three references.
Answer:
One prevalent health issue in the community is obesity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity affects 42.4% of adults in the United States. The CDC, along with other national, state, and local government health agencies, play a crucial role in addressing this issue.
The structure of public health at each level of government consists of different entities. At the national level, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) oversees the CDC and other agencies that work to address obesity. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) contribute to obesity prevention efforts.
At the state level, health departments and other agencies are responsible for implementing obesity prevention programs. For instance, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has developed the California Obesity Prevention Plan, which aims to reduce obesity rates by promoting healthy eating and physical activity.
At the local level, communities also play a crucial role in addressing obesity. For example, cities and counties can implement policies that promote access to healthy foods and safe places to exercise. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has introduced policies such as Healthy Bodegas, which encourage convenience stores to stock healthier food options.
The different levels of government work together to address obesity by sharing information, collaborating on programs and policies, and providing funding. For example, the CDC partners with state and local health departments to fund community-based programs that promote healthy eating and physical activity. The NIH also provides funding for research on obesity prevention and treatment.
In conclusion, the government plays a significant role in addressing health issues such as obesity, with different agencies and departments working together at the national, state, and local levels. By promoting healthy eating and physical activity, implementing policies, and funding programs and research, the government can reduce the prevalence of obesity and improve public health outcomes.
