Report

Expanding Delivery System Research in Public Health Settings: Lessons from Practice-Based Research Networks

This study examines the approaches used by public health practice-based research networks (PBRNs) to expand delivery system research and evidence-based practice in public health settings. Although some networks have already made progress in translating PBRN research findings into policy and delivery system changes, many additional opportunities exist for PBRNs to move research into meaningful public […]

Developing a Taxonomy for the Science of Improvement in Public Health

The purpose of this study was to advance the science of improvement in public health departments with the objectives of establishing a taxonomy of quality improvement (QI) projects in public health, categorizing QI projects undertaken in health departments using the taxonomy, and creating an opportunity modes and effects analysis. Researchers analyzed data from 51 QI projects […]

Structural and Organizational Characteristics Associated with Performance of Essential Public Health Services in Small Jurisdictions: Findings from a statewide study in Massachusetts.

This study examines jurisdictional, organizational, and structural characteristics associated with capacity to deliver 10 essential public health services in Massachusetts, a state where most local public health departments serve small municipalities. Hyde, J., Arsenault, L., Waggett, J., Mills, B., Cox, H., MacVarish, K., et. al. (2012). Structural and organizational characteristics associated with performance of essential […]

Regionalization in Local Public Health Systems

This brief reports on the effects of 9/11 on preparedness and regionalization. It examines a series of comparative case studies in four areas that suggest regionalization can improve both preparedness and public health in general. Available online: https://www.rwjf.org/en/library/research/2011/04/april-issue-of-health-affairs-focuses-on-patient-safety-and-heal/regionalization-in-local-public-health-systems.html California Health Policy Forum. (2007). Regionalization in Local Public Health Systems.

Diffusion of Practice-Based Research in Local Public Health: What Differentiates Adopters from Nonadopters?

The purpose of this study was to examine the level of involvement by local health departments in practice-based research activities and determine factors associated with variation in such involvement. The researchers administered questions to a nationally representative random sample of 625 local health departments. Available online: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23023277

Current and Planned Shared Service Arrangements Among Wisconsin’s Local and Tribal Health Departments

This three-page brief overviews current and planned shared service arrangements among local and tribal health departments in Wisconsin. It reports on rate of sharing, motivations, and reported outcomes. Available online (pdf): http://www.publichealthsystems.org/projects/current-and-planned-shared-service-arrangements-among-wisconsins-local-and-tribal-health Related journal article available online: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24399279

Final Recommendations for Consolidators

Based on an assessment of three local health departments, Kent State University personnel make recommendations for public health leaders who are consolidating local health agencies. Recommendations include 1) defining and collecting baseline information, 2) carefully planning the process of implementation, and 3) addressing challenges (i.e., leadership, credibility, assessment of progress). Call the Center for Sharing […]