Health programs focus on promoting healthy lifestyles, research to prevent disease and infection, and responding to public health emergencies. The goal of these efforts is to protect the health of whole populations—from as small as a neighborhood to an entire region or country.
A variety of different types of health programs exist, from workplace wellness competitions to community-wide food-based initiatives. Some of these programs are designed to be fun, while others aim to provide real-world benefits for participants and their communities. For example, an office weight loss competition can encourage staff members to eat healthier, while providing a fun way to develop team spirit and increase productivity in the workplace.
Generally, these efforts are carried out by local or state health departments, universities and other organizations, but can also be undertaken by private individuals or groups. They can focus on one particular condition, such as heart disease or diabetes, or on a particular group of people such as the elderly or young adults. Often, these programs are implemented by a mix of professionals, including epidemiologists, nutritionists and nurses.
The programs offered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) promote and maintain the health and well being of all Americans by providing a safety net for those who need it most, including temporary assistance for needy families, Head Start and child care. They also help people access affordable, quality health care through Medicare and TRICARE. HHS is responsible for preparing the nation for natural disasters and public health threats, and oversees federally funded research into diseases, infectious agents and environmental risks.
HHS programs also address specific populations, including children, parents, rural communities, transplant patients and health workers. They fund community-based primary care residency programs to increase the number of primary care physicians and dentists in underserved areas. Additionally, they fund nursing scholarships and programs to improve the recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals in rural communities.
HHS programs focus on preventing and controlling illness, disease and injury by educating the public, developing and testing vaccines, detecting and evaluating infectious agents and their effects on humans, identifying environmental hazards, and implementing strategies for healthy living. They are based on the principle that good public health policies save lives and improve the quality of life. NACCHO has resources to help local health departments prepare for emergencies and disasters, as well as programs to support healthy eating and active living. Moreover, NACCHO has tools to help LHDs assess their preparedness, learn from other departments and partners, and build resilience.