A proposed method for assessing the performance of local public health functions and practices

Abstract

Objectives: One of the objectives for the nation for the year 2000 requires that 90% of the population be served by a local health department effectively carrying out the core functions of public health. This study proposes a method whereby determinations can be made of the extent to which a local public health jurisdiction is served by core public health functions, as well as the extent to which the functions are rendered by the health department.

Methods: Fourteen health departments under longitudinal study between 1979 and 1992 were studied. Respondents in each department completed a survey protocol using 81 indicators linked to standard public health functions and practices. Results are presented in graphic form, which provides a visual profile of public health performance for a local jurisdiction.

Results: The graphic profiles successfully differentiate one jurisdiction from another, and within each jurisdiction they differentiate the performance levels of different public health practices. The method enables identification of the full range of public health providers.

Conclusions: Current definitions of public health practice have utility for evaluating public health performance. The validity of the proposed method deserves further study.