PUBHLTH 1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Reserve Clause, Commerce Clause, Medicaid
Document Summary
U. s. constitution - to promote the general welfare. Reserve clause - since health not mentioned in constitution, primary responsibility belongs to the states. Interstate commerce clause justified federal role in some cases. Power to tax and spend is widely used by fed gov"t to control public health policy. Executive - public health agencies carry out the law; may issue regulations consistent with statutes. Judicial - laws and regulations can be challenged in court. Often also have responsibility for providing medical care for the poor. Funding sources are variable; city or country legislatures may not understand importance of core functions. Mandates may be funded from state or federal governments. Coordinate activities of local health agencies and provide funding. License and certify medical personnel, facilities, and services. Environment, mental health, social services, and aging may be handled by separate agencies. Centers for disease control and prevention (cdc) Main epidemiologic and assessment agency for the nation.