Ministry of health
Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health (pronunciation: /ˈmɪnɪstri ɒv hɛlθ/) is a type of government department responsible for national public health matters, including the regulation and oversight of healthcare and health insurance.
Etymology
The term "ministry" comes from the Latin word ministerium, meaning "service" or "duty". "Health" is derived from the Old English hǣlth, which has the same root as the word "whole", implying being whole, sound, or well.
Functions
The Ministry of Health is typically responsible for setting health policy, administering public health programs, overseeing the provision of healthcare services, and regulating health-related industries such as pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Some Ministries of Health also have responsibilities for environmental health and occupational health and safety.
Related Terms
- Public health: The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through the organized efforts of society.
- Healthcare: The maintenance or improvement of health via the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, recovery, or cure of disease, illness, injury, and other physical and mental impairments in people.
- Health insurance: A type of insurance coverage that pays for medical and surgical expenses incurred by the insured.
- Pharmacy: The science and technique of preparing, dispensing, and reviewing drugs and providing additional clinical services.
- Medical device: Any device intended to be used for medical purposes.
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