Define the why, where, how, and what of public health practice

Why – to improve the health of a given population; involves issues of fairness, equity, and social justice.

Where – in local (county, city) health departments, in state-level health departments and related agencies, at the federal level through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other agencies within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and through analogous structures and systems within Native American Tribes and the U.S. Territories.

How – by integrating science-based interventions with community preferences to improve population health. Involves developing and identifying evidence, program development and prioritization, translating and disseminating science and evidence on programs and policies, and applying elements of evaluation to determine the outcomes, impact, and effect of practice.

What – the major programs, services, and activities that are delivered or take place on a day-to-day basis in local, state, and federal public health practice settings.