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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Richard Thomas, PhD, Center for Health Services Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 66 N. Pauline, Suite 463, Memphis, TN 38163, 901-278-2210, rthomas5@midsouth.rr.com

The public health “system” in the United States faces a variety to barriers to the effective performance of its mission. Among these are financial constraints, personnel and resource shortages, lack of clarity of mission, and a weak infrastructure. There is every reason to believe that this situation is not going to improve and, indeed, may actually worsen. This presentation argues that the only way in which public health entities can operate effectively under these circumstances is through the application of health planning principles. While some might argue that planning is expensive, it could also be contended that the cost of not planning is even greater. This paper presents a planning approach to public health, emphasizing the manner in which planning can be used to address the various deficiencies characterizing the public health field. Ultimately, health planning is seen as the integrating factor that allows for implementation of a coherent public health program, the maximization of resources, and effective goal attainment. The techniques featured are not particularly new but have not been adequately applied in the public health context.

Learning Objectives:

• Develop an appreciation of the ways in which health planning can be applied to public health.
• Learn about specific health planning techniques that have application in public health.
• Be able to evaluate public health programs from a health planning perspective.

Keywords: Public Health Administration, Planning

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation