If assessment is a basic public health function, why do state health departments need additional support through the Assessment Initiative?
Assessment is one of three core functions of public health and is, therefore, a key capacity associated with public health infrastructure development. The 2002 Institute of Medicine Report The Future of the Public’s Health in the 21st Century identified six areas of action needed to address present and future challenges faced by the nation’s public health system, one of which is the ongoing need to strengthen the public health infrastructure. In spite of funding increases in targeted areas (e.g., terrorism preparedness), many states continue to face budget restrictions and staffing shortages, coupled with multiple competing priorities demanding immediate attention. Without dedicated staff, leadership support, and adequate resources to support and customize assessment-related training and development, addressing this key public health function in a comprehensive and systematic way is difficult.
Related Questions
- If assessment is a basic public health function, why do state health departments need additional support through the Assessment Initiative?
- If a state has no local health departments, are descriptions/letters of support necessary that address cross-jurisdictional efforts?
- How does the Assessment Initiative benefit other state and local health departments that are not directly funded?
