Explain The Growth Of Public Health From The Basic Six

Explain the growth of public health from the Basic Six to the Essential Public Health Services

Prior to beginning work on this assignment, read Chapter 5: Twenty-First Century Community Public Health Practice of Public Health: What It Is and How It Works. Read the 10 Essential Public Health Services section in this chapter. In Table 5-3 in this chapter, you will find the scope of coverage expected for Local Health Departments (LHDs) and Public Health Offices (PHOs). You will also find that the 10 Essentials grew from the 1945 Emerson Report. Please use this text as your primary resource for this assignment. Please use attachments then do your own research for assignment, Explain the growth of public health from the Basic Six to the Essential Public Health Services. Determine the major catalysts in public health’s growth in the United States. Specifically, what changes have you noticed in how U.S. standards are organized? Are these standards more inclusive, do they focus on the same topic areas, and ultimately is the US taking on greater responsibilities? Propose why and when you feel patient-focused health care diverged from public-focused health care in the United States. Support your proposal with at least one credible source. Hypothesize why you feel patient-focused health care receives nearly 90% of the monies given by the U.S. government. Note: This assignment confirms your understanding of the history of public health and demonstrates your academic writing ability and skills with paraphrasing. You cannot use quotes in this assignment.

Paper For Above instruction

The evolution of public health over the decades reflects a continuous effort to expand and refine the scope of health services aimed at improving community well-being. Initially, the foundational framework of public health was encapsulated in the Basic Six services, which encompassed sanitation, communicable disease control, maternal and child health, and health education among others. This early structure primarily focused on controlling infectious diseases and ensuring basic sanitation standards, which were critical during the mid-20th century when infectious outbreaks posed significant threats to community health.

The transition from the Basic Six to the more comprehensive framework of the Ten Essential Public Health Services marked a significant evolution in public health practice. Developed in the late 20th century, this expansion was driven by the realization that health challenges had become more complex, necessitating a broader scope that includes policy development, community partnerships, and health promotion. The growth was catalyzed by increasing recognition of social determinants of health, technological advances, and the rising burden of chronic diseases, which required a more holistic approach to health management.

One major catalyst in public health’s growth was the publication of the Alma-Ata Declaration in 1978, emphasizing access to primary health care for all. This global initiative influenced U.S. health strategies by highlighting the significance of health equity and community-based services. Subsequently, the incorporation of the World Health Organization’s frameworks and policies contributed to expanding U.S. public health responsibilities. The development of the Public Health Infrastructure and subsequent reorganization of health standards demonstrated a shift toward more inclusive, comprehensive approaches that include prevention, health equity, and community engagement.

In terms of organizational changes, the standards have become more inclusive over time. Early public health efforts were primarily focused on controlling infectious diseases, but current standards prioritization extends into chronic disease prevention, health disparities, environmental health, and social determinants. The scope now encompasses a broader array of topics, reflecting a recognition that health is influenced by a multitude of societal factors. This evolution signifies that the U.S. has taken on greater responsibilities by broadening its health commitments to address a wider range of health issues affecting diverse populations.

The divergence between public-focused health care and patient-focused health care likely occurred with the rise of the biomedical model and the advent of healthcare consumerism. Historically, public health aimed at population-wide disease prevention and health promotion, often with a government-led approach. However, over the past few decades, there has been a shift toward individualized care—focusing on personal health management, treatment, and patient satisfaction. This divergence has been influenced by technological advances, changes in healthcare policy, and economic incentives that favor individual outcomes over community health. This shift aligns with the rise of managed care and health maintenance organizations, which prioritize patient-specific revenue streams and personalized care.

It can be hypothesized that patient-focused health care receives nearly 90% of U.S. government healthcare funding because it aligns with the economic incentives of the healthcare industry, the lobbying power of private providers, and the political emphasis on individual rights and consumer satisfaction. Additionally, this focus caters to the political and economic interests of stakeholders invested in personal healthcare services, which often generate significant revenue compared to population-based prevention programs. The prioritization of patient-centered care may also stem from a societal preference for tangible, immediate healthcare outcomes, as opposed to the more preventative and systemic approach favored by public health initiatives.

In conclusion, the growth of public health from the Basic Six to the Ten Essential Public Health Services underscores an increased understanding of the multifaceted determinants of health and the need for a broader, more inclusive framework. The historical catalysts such as global health declarations, technological advances, and policy reforms have driven this evolution, resulting in expanded responsibilities for U.S. health agencies. The divergence towards patient-centered care reflects broader economic and societal shifts, often at the expense of the more preventive focus of traditional public health. Recognizing these trends helps in understanding current health disparities and the importance of integrating public health principles with clinical care to achieve optimal community wellness.

References

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