Considerations for regional health authorities in the provision of environmental health services

As population health programs, environmental health services differ fundamentally from other forms of health service delivery. At a time when the health sector is striving for integration, the incorporation of these unique services into the delivery system presents a unique challenge to policy makers and administrators across the country. The University of Alberta recently completed a comprehensive review and redesign of locally governed and delivered environmental health protection services in Alberta. This paper outlines the key issues and unique features surrounding the delivery of environmental health services and presents the study team's suggested approach to addressing these issues.