Introduction to Public Health and Healthcare Systems
Defining Health and its Determinants
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease. Several factors influence health, including:
Biological Factors
These factors relate to an individual’s biological makeup and genetics.
Environmental Factors
These factors include physical and chemical aspects of the environment, such as pollution.
Lifestyle Factors
These factors relate to individual behaviors and choices, such as diet and exercise.
Healthcare System Factors
These factors include the quality and accessibility of healthcare services.
Public Health
Public health focuses on preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private communities, and individuals. Key activities in public health include:
- Basic community sanitation services
- Disease prevention activities
- Provision of medical services
- Health data analysis and reporting
- Health education and research
Healthcare Systems
A healthcare system is a complex network of elements that contribute to health, including homes, workplaces, and healthcare facilities. The National Health System aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services to the entire population through adequate organization, integration, and financing.
Levels of Care
- Primary Care: Provided by healthcare teams in health centers, focusing on preventive and basic medical services.
- Specialized Care: Provided by specialists in hospitals or specialized clinics, focusing on complex medical conditions.
Healthcare Resources
Healthcare systems rely on various resources, including:
- Human Resources: Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals.
- Material Resources: Medical equipment, facilities, and supplies.
- Economic Resources: Funding for healthcare services through various sources.
Hospitals
Hospitals are integral parts of the healthcare system, providing medical and social care to the population. Hospitals can be classified based on function, size, type of disease treated, and ownership.
Nursing Staff
Nurses play a crucial role in hospitals, with responsibilities including patient care, medication administration, and coordination with other healthcare professionals.
Inventory Management in Healthcare
Effective inventory management is essential for ensuring the availability of necessary supplies in healthcare facilities. Key concepts include:
- Consumables: Items used up quickly, such as syringes and gauze.
- Inventoriable Items: Durable items used repeatedly, such as medical equipment.
- Stock: The quantity of supplies on hand.
- Inventory Control Methods: FIFO (First-In-First-Out) and LIFO (Last-In-First-Out).
- Stock Levels: Maximum, minimum, and safety stock levels to ensure adequate supply.
- Ordering and Receiving: Processes for requesting and receiving supplies.
- Storage: Proper organization and conditions for storing supplies.
By understanding these key aspects of public health and healthcare systems, individuals can better navigate the complexities of healthcare and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.