Ensures the Quality and Accessibility of Health Services

Family health centers help provide access to preventive services to all Americans.   A preschool physical exam that includes basic monitoring of a child's growth and development is an indispensable preventive service.

Prevents Epidemics and the Spread of Disease

Public health has successfully controlled rabies outbreaks by using surveillance data to track outbreaks, coordinating animal vaccination programs, and conducting public education campaigns.

Prevents Epidemics and the Spread of Disease

Many State and local health departments and schools check children for lice, which can easily spread.  Public health tools such as Nits the Public Health Bear are used to reduce children's fears of checkups.

Responds to Disasters and Assists Communities  in Recovery

Public health provides crisis counseling; monitors signs of lingering problems such as alcohol abuse and domestic violence; staffs telephone hot lines; and links people with needed services long after disasters occur.