Federal governmental organization related to healthcare, such as FEMA, FDA, NIH, CDC,
Research a federal governmental organization related to healthcare, such as FEMA, FDA, NIH, CDC, or HHS. It is important to note that some federal agencies are interconnected and work collaboratively; therefore, it might be advantageous to compare and contrast roles and responsibilities of your selected organization.
Based on the above information:
Describe the organization’s mission. Relate its stated mission to its activities. Include information to address their roles and responsibilities and provide a clear definition as to the charge of the federal agency.
Select one of the following public health issues and describe 2–3 important activities of the organization to address the issue: infant mortality rates, reducing heart disease, infectious diseases, or airborne pathogens.
Examine resources utilization by the organization, particularly resources relevant to the selected public health issue.
Evaluate the organization’s effectiveness in decreasing/improving the selected public health issue.
Propose 2–3 strategies or an action plan of public health priorities for your specific organization in the twenty-first century to create a healthier nation.
cite your sources in your work and provide references for the citations in APA format. 2- to 3-pg document.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Public Health Challenges
Mission and Activities
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the leading national public health institute of the United States. Its mission statement is "to protect America from health threats and promote healthy living through science-based disease prevention, health promotion and preparedness" ([CDC Mission, Vision, Values & Goals], 2021). This mission translates into a wide range of activities, all focused on preventing disease, promoting healthy behaviors, and preparing for public health emergencies.
Here are some key activities of the CDC that exemplify its mission:
- Disease surveillance: The CDC monitors outbreaks of infectious diseases domestically and internationally, collecting data and issuing alerts to healthcare providers and the public.
- Epidemic response: The CDC plays a central role in responding to outbreaks by deploying teams of experts, providing technical assistance, and developing recommendations for control measures.
- Chronic disease prevention: The CDC conducts research and develops programs to prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
- Immunization programs: The CDC recommends and promotes childhood and adult immunization schedules to protect the population against vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Health education: The CDC provides educational materials for the public and healthcare professionals on a wide range of health topics.
- Data collection and analysis: The CDC's Division of Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities collects data on infant mortality rates and analyzes trends to identify factors contributing to the problem.
- Maternal and child health programs: The CDC supports programs such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) which provides nutritional support to pregnant women and young children.
- Safe sleep education campaigns: The CDC promotes safe sleep practices to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Addressing health disparities: The CDC should prioritize programs aimed at reducing health disparities among different populations. This might include initiatives focused on improving access to healthcare in underserved communities, promoting culturally competent care, and addressing social determinants of health.
- Antimicrobial resistance: The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria poses a significant public health threat. The CDC should prioritize research and development of new antibiotics and work with healthcare providers to ensure appropriate antibiotic use.