A Synopsis of Local Boards of Health: Findings from the 2011 National Profile

Local boards of health (LBOH) serve to protect and promote the health of their communities and are charged with the responsibility to govern local health agencies and shape public health policy. Yet, there exists a lack of data about the effectiveness of LBOH and their link to governance, policies, and public health issues. The NALBOH 2011 Profile Survey was conducted to help fill these gaps and provides a nationally representative data on the structure and functions of LBOH. Findings from the Profile Survey indicate that LBOH vary in geographic jurisdiction, member selection process, and authority to recommend and approve policies; have important responsibilities in overseeing health departments, establishing public health priorities, setting public health policy, and enforcing local health regulations; need to provide an orientation to new members and ongoing training for all members; identified conducting a board self-evaluation, advocating for local public health, and establishing community health priorities as top training needs; and recognize the progression of quality improvement and accreditation initiatives and have expressed a need for assistance. These major findings provide an overview of the structure and responsibilities of LBOH and offer a better understanding of their functions, needs, and role in the public health system.