What is Community Health?

Community Health is the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts of society. It is a combination of sciences, skills, and beliefs that is directed to the maintenance and improvement of health of all the people through collective or social actions.

COMMUNITY HEALTH MISSION STATEMENT
It is the mission of the Community Health Program to provide a broad foundation in health promotion, intervention, nature and patterns of disease in communities and program planning and evaluation. The Community Health Program provides the student with a background leading to an entry level position in Community Health and preparation for additional studies in health careers. In addition, the multidisciplinary health focus emphasizes technology, scientific research and advances in health care relevant to improve the health of individuals and communities.
(February 7, 1997)

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

The program outcomes were developed in conjunction with the college outcomes and are intended to build on these outcomes adding language that is specific to address the skills needed for a community health professional.

Effective Professional Communication

Communicate with clients in an individual or group setting and with health professionals in a variety of health settings using a combination of communication skills for a clear exchange of ideas and information, listening and comprehending the viewpoints of others, effectively presenting information in oral and written formats and integrating media/technology.

Professional Competency Outcome

Use reasoned judgment drawing upon a broad knowledge base from social, behavioral and natural science, education and health to assess, plan, implement, evaluate and coordinate health promotion for individuals and communities.

Professional Ethics

Apply high ethical standards to community health practice with a sensitivity to multicultural traditions, legal issues, and adherence to a code of ethics of professional health organizations.

Continual Professional and Personal Development

Continue personal and professional development in holistic health, including the components of physical, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental and vocational health, through continuing education, advanced study, and participation in professional health organizations. (2/23/99)

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