What is the impact of local health department structure and policy on public health outcomes?

This study examines the policies and structures of local and state health departments, and how they impact public health. The study will focus on the structural arrangements of the local boards of health (such as whether the boards of health are elected or appointed) and the level of state health department centralization, and how they affect performance, fiscal health, innovation, collaboration, and strategic planning. In addition to contributing to the ongoing dialogue regarding health department accreditation, this study will provide a road map for policy makers, planners, administrators and individual citizens for years to come.