Access this module
The Northwest Center for Public Health Practice modules are accessed through a secure learning environment called PH LearnLink, which allows you to keep track of your learning experiences as you take our modules.

You may find the help pages useful when getting started in PH LearnLink.

Description

When SARS struck in late 2002, public health professionals suddenly faced urgent questions. Who has jurisdiction over the public's health? Who speaks out? Who makes the final decisions? This module focuses on public health laws and regulations relating to large-scale emergencies such as bioterrorism, pandemic flu, or natural disasters. It covers sources and characteristics of public health law, jurisdiction issues, and the role of the military and federal agencies when investigating and responding to terrorism or natural disasters.

Objectives

After completing this module, you should be able to:

• Identify major sources of law relevant to public health
• Determine what types of laws apply to a given public health threat and why
• Discuss jurisdictional issues related to state, federal, tribal, and international laws
• Summarize categories of terrorism
• Identify laws and agencies relevant to acts of terrorism