Public health and health care reform: the American Public Health Association's perspective

This paper discusses the American Public Health Association's goals with regards to the current health care reform debate. By outlining the organization's historical context with regards to health care reform as well as the parameters of the current medical care and public health crises, the paper explains why APHA's advocacy efforts focused on two major issues: the adoption of a national health program that features universal coverage with a comprehensive set of benefits for all our nation's residents, and the enhancement of the federal, state, and local public health infrastructure. The paper argues that both medical care services and public health programs must be expanded if we are to improve the nation's overall health status.