American public health association
American Public Health Association
The American Public Health Association (APHA) is a Washington, D.C.-based professional organization for public health professionals in the United States.
Pronunciation
American Public Health Association: /əˈmɛrɪkən pʌblɪk hɛlθ əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
Etymology
The term "American Public Health Association" is derived from its purpose and location. "American" refers to its base in the United States, "Public Health" signifies its focus on public health issues, and "Association" indicates that it is a professional organization.
History
The APHA was founded in 1872 by a group of physicians, including Dr. Stephen Smith and Dr. Henry Hartshorne. It is the oldest and largest organization of public health professionals in the world, representing more than 50,000 members from over 50 occupations of public health.
Mission
The mission of the APHA is to improve the health of the public and achieve equity in health status. They aim to influence federal policy, to assist in the development of health policy and to ensure the access to health care for all citizens.
Related Terms
- Public Health: The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals.
- Health Equity: The attainment of the highest level of health for all people.
- Health Policy: Decisions, plans, and actions that are undertaken to achieve specific health care goals within a society.
- Health Care Access: The ability of individuals to obtain health care services.
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