How many times is public health mentioned in the media? In the midst of an outbreak report from online or offline sources, people may hear of public health as the all-inclusive term for all things health related. It is more specific than that.
Public health is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as “the science of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities.” It is a way of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting good health. This is through the informed choices and the organized efforts of society, public and private communities, organizations, and individuals.
In a nutshell, public health provides evidence-based solutions to health problems.
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How Can Public Health Affect Businesses?
This pandemic has forcibly thrown public health at center stage. Unemployment is at an all-time high. Sadly, the government cannot help everyone. In most countries, there are simply not enough resources for everyone. Private and public entities and communities are encouraged by the government to help.
Private entities can fill in the gap when resources are scarce. Companies can provide food, medicine, and supplies by predicting and producing these items when and where they’re most needed.
Today, some communities have come together to produce their own food. Backyard gardens have become very popular lately, either as a source of food or a distraction from the widespread panic. Even beginners or those with zero knowledge in gardening join in on the objective. In short, public health connects everyone.
The government may introduce health programs. To support these programs, non-government agencies help and empower companies and communities. Similarly, people may even start the initiative themselves or ask the government to strengthen its mandate.
How Can Businesses Help?
One way to help is to develop software applications that track and monitor diseases. The data from software applications or programs is essential.
It is through these data that decisions (i.e., adding or reducing supply of production and distribution of food, medications, supplements, medical equipment, and medical supplies) are based on.
Further, companies can track the inventory of these items and be aware of expiration dates and the number of available stocks. Monitoring orders when they come helps in determining and predicting changes. Businesses are also mindful of how to store these items properly.
Also, companies can inform the government about possible side effects and adverse reactions to certain medicines, which results in public advisories or new implementations. Tracking the number of cases through apps can also help businesses supply essential items.
Preventing and Treating
With quarantine protocols in effect at this pandemic, selling products online has become a top option.
Businesses are helping out in preventing and treating illnesses. For example, more businesses are selling vitamins, other supplements, face masks, and other types of PPE to ward off infections. More health offices are also stocking up on flu and pneumonia vaccines and maintenance medications.
At the same time that businesses are helping the government, these public regulatory agencies monitor businesses’ compliance in advertising, product literature, pricing regulations, and even logistics processes to prevent fraud or abuse.
Educating
One of the public health’s main goals is the prevention of illnesses or complications. This is only possible through information dissemination. For example, some infections are reported to be on the rise at a certain time each year. With that expectation in mind, businesses and communities can prepare to lessen the odds of being sick.
For example, getting a flu vaccine yearly in October is recommended by the CDC every year. The organization further said that vaccinating too early (July or August) may lead to reduced protection during the flu season.
Also, educating people on lifestyle changes involving sanitation, diet and nutrition, and stress reduction may help people in preventing or managing illnesses.
Companies may also help communities in avoiding illnesses by offering deep-cleaning services to other companies and homeowners, providing medical supplies and equipment to hospitals and clinics, or offering HVAC cleaning services, all in compliance with government rules and regulations.
Also, in winter, the holidays may see a rise in the number of cardiovascular, psychiatric, or gastrointestinal cases. Some health-care providers and therapists may introduce and promote fitness or stress reduction classes. Also, this may be a good time to promote healthier food and exercise activities.
At the core of it all, everyone has a role in promoting health wellness. There may be similarities and differences between them, but the government, businesses, and communities all share one major purpose: to promote health wellness.
About Carson Derrow
