DEPARTMENT: Health
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Dr. Vincent R. Nathan
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
Briefing and update on core public health functions, key health indicators and the Medicaid 1115 Waiver program
SUMMARY:
This item provides a briefing by the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) on the core public health functions, key health indicators causing the highest rates of mortality and illness in San Antonio and an update on the Medicaid 1115 Waiver program.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The foundation of public health lies within three core functions defined as assessment, policy development, and assurance. In addition to these core functions, public health is guided by ten essential publichealth services, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which are applied to national, state and local public health departments throughout the country. Periodically informing governing officials about the community's health status, health risks, and health disparities is a key function and requirement of Metro Health.
Though public health has made great strides in combating disease, extending life expectancies and improving quality of life, significant health challenges continue to confront us. While infectious diseases like drug resistant tuberculosis persist and emerging infectious diseases like Zika capture our attention, the most pressing and long-term challenges for public health are chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. These conditions are also the leading causes of death and disability in our community and across the country.
In addition, the well-being of mothers, infants, and children is an important factor in the health of the next generation and can help predict future public health challenges for families, communities and the medical system. Addressing the needs of women before, during and after pregnancy helps to improve not only...
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