Public Health Institution

What is the primary goal of harm reduction strategies, such as needle exchange programs?

What was one of the consequences of the measles outbreak mentioned?

What critical percentage of vaccination is estimated to achieve herd immunity against measles?

What landmark case upheld the authority of states to mandate vaccinations?

What argument do some parents make against vaccinations as per the content provided?

What is a significant concern regarding funding for public health initiatives?

In the context of public health, what does 'interference with science' imply?

What supports the argument that human rights protection leads to better public health outcomes?

What power allows states to enact laws that may be stricter than federal laws?

Which branch of government is primarily responsible for executing laws related to public health?

What is a common role of local governments in public health?

Which of the following is an example of state coercion in public health policy?

What type of regulation would require compliance from individuals or organizations?

How can government taxes influence public health behavior?

What is a primary function of Congressional acts regarding public health?

Which of the following issues often leads to controversy in healthcare?

Government agencies play a large role in public health regulations
Authority comes from the Constitution; no federal, state, or local regulations can contradict the Constitution
States can regulate more than the federal government in some areas (e.g., reproduction laws, seatbelt laws)
Government actors/tools:
- Legislative branch (Congress):
  - Passes laws (acts of Congress)
  - Can tax, spend, and regulate (interstate commerce)
  - Can use spending power to influence state statutes
- Executive branch agencies:
  - Carry out laws, e.g., setting drinking ages
- Judicial branch (Supreme Courts):
  - Holds "police power" to ensure local health & safety
Local governments:
- Have authority in state constitutions and by state laws
- Create ordinances and regulations
- Enforce state and local laws
- Administer federal, state, and local programs

Laws & Regulations (made by legislature and executive):
- Set requirements, prohibitions, and standards
- Can be mandatory
- E.g., animal regulations, safety, environmental regulations
Programs:
- Government or non-government funding
- Assistance, educational campaigns, service provision
- Voluntary
- E.g., vaccination programs
Taxes:
- Incentives and disincentives (e.g., cigarette tax, tax breaks for energy efficiency)