Public Health Policy
CDC's definition of policy
CDC defines "policy" as a law, regulation, procedure, administrative action, incentive, or voluntary practice of governments and other institutions.
Policy and health
The health of our nation can be influenced public health policies, such as a tobacco control policy, and by policies in many other sectors. For example, transportation policies can encourage increased physical activity and school nutrition policies can ensure healthier meals are provided in schools. Many national health strategies, plans, and initiatives, such as Healthy People 2020, have policy implications. Policy decisions are also frequently reflected in resource allocations.
CDC policy-focused offices and programs
The Public Health Law Program, Office of the Associate Director for Policy, and Office of the Associate Director for Program are three primary groups at CDC that deal with policy-related issues.
Guidelines and Recommendations
Public health guidelines and recommendations are used by stakeholders in the policy-making process. This site is a one-stop shop for guidelines or recommendations developed by CDC, CDC working in collaboration with other organizations or agencies, or by CDC federal advisory committees.
Integrity and accountability review offices
The Government Accountability Office and HHS Office of the Inspector General help to ensure the integrity and accountability of CDC activities.
Legislation, regulations, and policies
Many laws, regulations, and policies can have implications to federal, state, tribal, local and territorial governments as well as the general public.
National organization policy resources
The following national organizations serve the public health system.
- Page last reviewed: November 9, 2015
- Page last updated: November 9, 2015
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