An applied and systematic approach to assessing feasibility of consolidation of local health departments into a single health district

Public health departments have increased responsibilities in their communities to provide the 10 Essential Public Health Services and core functions of public health as well as meet the National Public Health Performance Standards to apply for the voluntary accreditation of health departments. Research has suggested that adopting a regional approach can improve efficiency (Libbey & Mirzoyants, 2011 & Bashir et al, 2003). Other research has suggested that in order for efficiency in the system to occur, consolidation of smaller local health departments is rational since capacity and financial ability to provide the 10 Essential Public Health Services is compromised when smaller, local health districts remain independent (Santerre et al, 2009 & Mays et al, 2006). To our knowledge, there has been limited research suggesting a methodology to assess feasibility. The purpose of this session is to describe the feasibility assessment process that was undertaken by two communities in Northeast Ohio. Both feasibility studies were commissioned by the stakeholders and public health leaders in their communities. A community consultant facilitated the studies and the methodology was replicated in a neighboring county. Eight critical issue areas were examined in both studies over the course of eight months. Although each community is unique, this methodology used a national set of standards and Essential Public Health Services framework to assess feasibility and capacity for consolidation that can be utilized by other communities that are interested in reshaping the delivery of public health services to enhance the health of a community through consolidation.