Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which levels of government are responsible for carrying out comprehensive health care functions?

1. Federal and state

2. Federal, state, and local

3. All, but primarily state and local

4. All, but primarily federal and state

The correct answer is: Federal, state, and local

The comprehensive health care functions in a public health context are primarily the responsibility of federal, state, and local levels of government, each playing a distinct and crucial role. At the federal level, the government establishes broad health policies, provides funding, conducts research, and implements national health programs. Agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are pivotal in addressing public health issues on a national scale, including disease control and prevention initiatives. State governments are responsible for the administration of public health programs, regulation of healthcare providers, and the management of public health services tailored to the specific needs of their populations. They work closely with federal agencies to implement health programs and policies while also dealing with state-specific health challenges. Local governments focus on community-level health issues, providing direct health services, education, and outreach to residents. Local health departments are vital in responding to immediate health needs, including disease outbreaks, health promotion activities, and environmental health matters. While each level of government operates within its scope, the interconnectedness and collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies are essential for addressing public health comprehensively. The choice that accurately captures this relationship is that federal, state, and local governments all share