In the United States, the function of public health policy is often considered to be synonymous with the mission of the Department of Health and Human Services. On the other hand, it was under the leadership of former presidents that the public health concept received a major overhaul. President Clinton signed the National Childhood Lung Cancer Act (NCMHCA), which set up national standards for childhood and adolescent cancer. The new legislation also established the NCMHCA as a coordinating body for all Federal agencies responsible for the quality of public health.
The primary objective of the NCMHCA: is to protect and improve the public’s health by preventing and treating childhood and adolescent cancer. The policy also directs the sharing of information on public health measures and general information about cancer research and prevention. It instructs hospitals on the collection and handling of personal information relating to a patient’s health and directs the states to develop a cancer surveillance program based on the standards set forth in the act. In addition, the act directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a database that would allow the coordination of public health programs.
As part of the Act: the Secretary of Health and Human Services is directed to coordinate a public health system resource, which will include a website. This website shall provide information on childhood and adolescent cancer. According to the site, the website will serve as a clearing house for patient education, clinical information, support resources, and statistical data on cancer. The website is also designed to help families, patients, and medical professionals to understand and improve the public’s understanding of cancer. The website is designed to promote cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Another important function of public: health policy is to direct the distribution of public service announcements. For example, every time there is a new study about a new disease or condition, or a new prevention or cure, a public health message about the findings may be sent to radio and television stations, published in magazines, or posted on websites. The messages may also be sent directly to the individual family members. The intent of the message is to promote public awareness of the latest information regarding an issue so that individuals can make informed decisions about their health.
The function of public health policy: is not limited to spreading information about disease or conditions. It is also directed toward protecting an individual’s right to privacy. When someone goes to the doctor for a physical exam, the process is designed to protect that person’s privacy. Similarly, researchers want to capture data on the demographic of individuals who are diagnosed with certain diseases. With this data, researchers can better understand the risk factors associated with these diseases. The same is true for health education.
Understanding how the function of public health policy works can be useful: However, it is not enough for an individual to know that his or her rights are protected by law. Individuals must also be aware that they have certain responsibilities related to their health. They need to take responsibility for their own health and the health of their family.
By making themselves aware of the risks and protective measures that are available to them, they can protect their health and the health of those around them.
