Essay on How Public Health System Has Evolved Throughout The Years

1. Public health system has evolved throughout the years. From the history of public health in Chicago to the implementation of new policies to address health concerns, health professionals strive to improve overall health for its population. One of the major achievements was the creation of vaccines to help fight infectious diseases. Prior to the 1900 smallpox was a major concern, but through the public health efforts of Edward Jenner and his creation of a vaccine, small pox is eradicated. Vaccines are evident example how community efforts to improve overall health have helped protect the health of individuals through primary prevention. Prevention strategies aim to prevent the onset of disease and lower healthcare cost in the nation.
Although public health is improving there continues to be barriers. As people are living longer, rates of chronic illness continue to rise. Hence, health care cost continues to be a problem in the United States. The population now faces high rates of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes. Most of the leading causes of death can be prevented by modifying health behaviors. Yet, through class discussions and readings social determinants of health play a vital role in whether an individual seeks care or not. Social economic status is a great indicator of health. People living in low income communities continue to struggle with accessing nutritious foods, unsafe communities, poor education environment, and health…