What is PUBLIC HEALTH SYSTEMS RESEARCH?
In the last issue of NCPERRC news we defined public health systems research (PHSR). Now we will give an example of how it can benefit public health.
PHSR asks tough questions about why gaps exist in the availability and quality of public health services nationwide, and what changes to the organizational structure, financing, and workforce characteristics have the potential to close those gaps.
Public health activities are supported through a patchwork of funding sources (governmental and non-governmental), funding vehicles (categorical grants, block grants, contracts, unrestricted funds, etc.), public financing options (general revenue, special taxes or fees, etc.), and resource allocation mechanisms (based on need, cost, or performance).
Each of these financial tools can be used to support public health. As funding gets squeezed in the current economic climate, PHSR can provide evidence of what works and what are the best combination of tools for the tough jobs at hand.
Reference
GP Mays,et al. Public Helath Delivery Systems. Am J Prev Med 2009;36(3).