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Northeast Nebraska Public Health Dept

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What Is Public Health?

February 28, 2025

Public health focuses on protecting and improving the health of communities through education, disease prevention, and policies that promote well-being. Unlike healthcare, which treats individuals after they become sick, public health works to prevent illness and create healthier environments for everyone.

Public health efforts include:

  • Preventing the spread of diseases through vaccinations and health screenings10 Essential Public Health Services
  • Promoting healthy lifestyles through nutrition, physical activity, and wellness programs
  • Ensuring clean air, water, and food safety
  • Preparing for and responding to public health emergencies

The 10 Essential Public Health Services

Public health professionals follow these 10 Essential Public Health Services to protect and improve community health:

  1. Assess health needs by collecting and analyzing data
  2. Investigate and respond to health problems and hazards
  3. Communicate effectively to inform and educate the public
  4. Strengthen community partnerships to improve health outcomes
  5. Develop policies and plans that support public health efforts
  6. Enforce laws and regulations that protect health and safety
  7. Ensure access to quality healthcare and services
  8. Maintain a diverse and skilled public health workforce
  9. Improve programs through research and innovation
  10. Build a strong organizational foundation to support public health work

Public health is all around us - in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the communities we live in. Our health department is committed to promoting and protecting the well-being of our communities through these essential services.