An Analysis of Local Public Health in Arizona

Local public health departments that aim to address the public health needs of growing populations require qualified professionals with management competencies. Local health departments must engage in strategic planning, evaluation, human resources management and budget development, among other functions. In Arizona, many public health services are delivered by the county health departments, which are charged with assisting community members, monitoring the health of the community and ultimately, improving community health. Interviews with all Arizona county health department directors (N=15) were conducted. Interviews were conducted in person and lasted approximately one and a half hours. The objective of each interview was to discuss the county health department public health activities, the current political/policy climate within the county, and partnerships or other relationships that may contribute to the provision of public health activities in the county. During the interview, the directors were asked about resources available to address populations at risk, current stakeholder support, Local Board of Health/Board of Supervisors support, balance with other governmental priorities by the Board, and range of outside services available to residents. Responses varied significantly across state due to differences in demographic and financial characteristics of the counties. Many socioeconomic and environmental barriers to provision of services were identified as well as the need for more trained public health workers. This study aimed to better understand the local public health system in Arizona, the distribution of public health services across counties and the political, financial and policy constraints faced by county health department directors.