Deck 7: The Federal Contribution to Public Health

Question 1

The federal government branches serve different functions in the public health system. Briefly describe the role of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

Answer 1

a. Legislative branch: holds constitutional authority for creating federal programs, policies, and regulations that influence public health and for appropriating the federal funds that allow them to be implemented
b. Judicial branch: carries out the responsibility of interpreting and adjudicating the federal government's public health authority in view of constitutional law, legislative action, and legal precedent
c. Executive branch: holds the authority for implementing public health programs and enforcing health-related policies and regulations through administrative agencies

Question 2

Briefly describe the role and function of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in working to improve public health.

Answer 2

The CDC is the key source of evidence for action on public health issues. The agency is involved in monitoring the health status of the nation, informing clinical and policy decision making, and providing health information for the public. The CDC works with state and local partners to help make their responses to health problems more effective and in detecting and responding to outbreaks and other health threats.

Question 3

List at least five types of federal government support of the public health system.

Answer 3

(Answer can include at least five of the following.)
Funding for state, local, tribal, and territorial health agencies and initiatives
Data for decision making
Funding and conducting research
Regulatory, policy, and legal action
Health education
Support of advisory bodies that make public health recommendations
Evidence-based guidelines and recommendations
National initiatives, strategies, and action plans
Quality improvement efforts
Workforce development
Technical assistance for state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies
Emergency preparedness and response
Laboratory services and systems