The Revised 10 Essential Public Health Services Framework

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For more than 25 years, the Essential Public Health Services (EPHS) have guided the mission and practice of public health in the United States. First released in 1994, the framework provided a well-recognized structure for public health practice.

In 2020, it was updated to reflect modern challenges, innovations, and the growing emphasis on equity in health outcomes.

The 2020 Update

The revised EPHS framework was officially released on September 9, 2020. At its core, the update places equity at the center, underscoring that all efforts in public health must ensure fairness, reduce disparities, and improve outcomes for every community.

The framework is organized around the three core public health functions:

  1. Assessment
  2. Policy Development
  3. Assurance

This structure ensures that public health practice remains comprehensive and adaptable.

Development Process

The update was a collaborative effort led by the Public Health National Center for Innovations (PHNCI) — now the PHAB Center for Innovation — in partnership with the de Beaumont Foundation and a task force of national experts, leaders, and practitioners.

Federal agencies, including the CDC, were instrumental in the revision process. Public health professionals and stakeholders were actively engaged to ensure the framework aligned with current and future needs.

The 10 Essential Public Health Services

The revised framework identifies the following goals and services:

  1. Assess and monitor population health status, factors influencing health, and community needs and assets.
  2. Investigate, diagnose, and address health problems and hazards affecting the population.
  3. Communicate effectively to inform and educate people about health and how to improve it.
  4. Strengthen, support, and mobilize communities and partnerships to improve health.
  5. Create, champion, and implement policies, plans, and laws that impact health.
  6. Utilize legal and regulatory actions to improve and protect public health.
  7. Assure an effective system that enables equitable access to needed services and care.
  8. Build and support a diverse and skilled public health workforce.
  9. Improve and innovate public health functions through evaluation, research, and continuous quality improvement.
  10. Build and maintain strong organizational infrastructure for public health.

Significance of the Framework

By centering equity and modernizing its approach, the revised EPHS serves as both a roadmap and accountability tool for public health systems. It emphasizes collaboration, community engagement, and the ongoing need for innovation in protecting and improving population health.

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Jasmine

Jasmine is a dedicated health news writer with a keen focus on delivering clear, accessible updates on medical research, public health issues, and wellness trends. In addition to her health coverage, she also reports on U.S. news, including timely updates on stimulus checks, government initiatives, and important policy changes that affect everyday lives. Her work blends accuracy with clarity, making complex topics easier for readers to understand and act on.

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