JPHMP Direct October 17, 2025
Public health infrastructure is often invoked in policy discussions, particularly during crises like pandemics or natural disasters, yet the term itself is rarely unpacked. When we talk about infrastructure, we may envision bridges, power grids, or broadband networks. However, in the context of governmental public health, infrastructure refers to the essential services and capabilities that support a health department’s ability to protect and improve community health, regardless of disease or health issue. One challenge for governmental public health agencies is the funding structure. Categorical grants—federal or state funds directed toward specific diseases or health risks—have historically dominated public health finance. These grants are narrow, programmatic, and outcome-focused, which can be effective for delivering disease-specific interventions but tend to underfund cross-cutting...
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