Public Health Systems & Services Research

The complexities of public health and the history of the health industry make it difficult to determine the strongest methods for maximizing public health services, and this is only worsened by the lack of evidence used to determine common practices. That’s where public health systems and services research (PHSSR) aims to make a huge difference. PHSSR wants to examine and improve common practices based on the use of data, the application of research techniques, and the development of evidence.

PHSSR investigates the large internal “systems” governing the operation of public health and the results on population health. These systems include the organization, the structure, the financing, the way services are delivered, the physical locations, the means of communication, the requirements of personnel, and the list continues. PHSSR is an evidence-based analysis of these, and other, over-arching elements supporting the functions of public health agencies.

PHSSR is an evolving field, which makes it simultaneously challenging and exciting. NWCPHP is involved in multiple evidence-based projects that are generating data for direct application into public health practice.

The ultimate goal is the creation of a more cohesive public health industry. With the increased understanding of public health systems, improved practices and understanding will emerge amongst agencies. Advancements in functionality and information regarding public health issues can be disseminated with greater efficiency and reduced cost. Properly implemented, PHSSR results in improved public health services and the improved health of the population.