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Introduction to State Health Policy:
A Seminar for New State Legislators
A Free Series of Archived
Sessions from the
March 31-April 3, 2005 Seminar in Chicago,
Ilinois |
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Session 5:
Understanding the Importance of Public Health
| Presenter: |
Georges C. Benjamin,
M.D.
Executive Director
American Public Health Association
Washington, DC |
| Content: |
Public health activities, such as the immunization
of children, have proven effective over time at preventing disease,
protecting health, and saving health care resources. Indeed,
public health services can provide the most cost-effective way
to promote health among large populations. Recent bioterrorism
threats, SARS, West Nile Virus, and flu vaccine shortages have
highlighted public health issues and raised awareness about gaps
in local and State government programs that are supposed to respond
to such threats. Rising trends in obesity and chronic disease
have increased concentration on prevention. Understanding and
supporting activities in public health is an important role of
State policymakers. This session outlines the key public health
activities undertaken by States and the role legislatures play
in regulating these services. |
| Session Archive: |
Click
to View Archive (REAL Player) |
| Session Transcript: |
Text Transcript |
| Presentation Slides: |
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Recommended reading:
- Gostin LO, Boufford JI, Martinez RM. “The Future
of the Public’s Health: Vision, Values, and Strategies.” Health
Affairs, July/August 2004;23(4):96-107
- King M, Oliver L. “Investing in Cost-Effective
Health Services and Strategies.” In Balancing Health
Needs with Resources. National Conference of State Legislatures, January
2004.
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