Basic Environmental Health Program

Introduction To Public Health In New York State (PH 101)

This one-day module includes the following topics:

• History of Public Health
• Core Functions and Essential Services of Public Health
• Professional Ethics 
• The Legal Basis and Organization of Public Health in NYS

History of Public Health

After attending this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Describe conditions that existed before the advent of modern public health.
• Describe three public health interventions since 1900 that have increased life expectancy in the U.S. (Ten Great Public Health Achievements)
• Describe the difference between medical care and public health in increasing life expectancy.

Core Functions and Essential Services of Public Health

After attending this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Define the three core functions of public health: assessment, policy development, and assurance, and give an example of each.
• Given examples of services- be able to classify which of the 10 essential services are involved.
• Be able to explain to a neighbor or relative what public health is.

Professional Ethics

After attending this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Define the legal basis and penalties for unethical behavior.
• Enumerate on-the-job duties that are potentially related to corruptive practices.
• Explain responsibility to act when need to act is recognized.

Legal Basis and Organization of Public Health in NYS

After attending this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Describe the public health law powers granted to state and local governments.
• State the purpose of the state sanitary code and how it is adopted.
• Describe the content of the health department’s Administrative Rules and Regulations and the parts relevant to public health practice.

Priority for this course is given to environmental health personnel. Other public health staff may register on a space-available basis.