NRS-428VN: Concepts in Community and Public Health Assignment Help.

This NRS-428VN: Concepts in Community and Public Health course focuses on the community as a large system of people of varying cultures, spiritual values, geographic norms, and economic conditions, all influenced by social-legal-political variables that impact individual and community health. Particular attention is paid to vulnerable subgroups in the community. Emphasis is placed on critical analysis, using epidemiological data and functional health pattern assessments to plan and intervene in areas of health promotion and disease prevention.

Table of Contents

Understanding community health.

In order to understand community health, we should first understand what a community is. A community is a social group determined by geographical boundaries and/ or common values and interest. Its members know and interact with each other. It functions within a particular structure and exhibits and creates certain norms, values, and social institutions.

NRS-428VN: Concepts in Community and Public Health

Characteristics of a community?

The community has a defined geographical boundary which has the beginning and the end.
The boundaries of a small community such as hamlet, village, etc. are distinct whereas that of a large community such as a town, city, etc. are indistinct.
The community is composed of people who live together within the defined boundaries of the community.
Community people have common psychological characteristics i.e., there is a similarity in language, lifestyle, customs, and traditions, etc. • They share common interests, values, moral norms, and codes.
The people in the community interact with each other and have free communication.
The community has an organized social structure and system and a common organization that carries various functions such as housing, food, agriculture, animal husbandry, health, education, marketing, banking, etc.

6 Functions of a community.

It provides space for housing, shelter, socialization, and recreation.
It provides means and facilities for livelihood.
The community provides opportunities for employment.
It takes care of the socialization and education of its members.
It provides safety and security for its members by enforcement of norms and legislation formulated by society.
It provides opportunities for people participation and communication.

What is community health?

Community health is a major field of study within the medical and clinical sciences that focuses on the maintenance, protection, and improvement of the health status of population groups and communities.

According to WHO, community health refers to environmental, social, and economic resources to sustain emotional and physical wellbeing among people in ways that advance their aspirations and satisfy their needs in their unique environment.

What is public health?

Public health refers to the science and art of preventing disease”, prolonging life, and improving quality of life through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations (public and private), communities, and individuals.