16 déc. 1958 - Overarching Themes of Issues of Funding/ Recognition/ Importance

Description:

Public health seemed to be “losing ground ”and was “falling into disrepute” as other parts of government were taking over some public health functions. New government bodies and commissions were “being formed without even public health representation to deal with matters of stream pollution, air pollution, hospital construction, medical care administrations chronic disease control.” McGavran suggested a new concept of public health, “based upon the new and coming acceptance that public health is the scientific diagnosis and treatment of communities.” An excessive focus on the treatment of individuals through new “magic drugs and refined diagnostic tools” had blinded the public health profession from seeing the real focus and importance of its work which, he noted, was always community focused.