Citizen boards of health were first formed in the late 1700s to control epidemics and poor sanitary conditions. By the end of the twentieth century, there were approximately 3,200 local boards of health in the United States.
There are two types:
- Advisory: Usually appointed by a health officer or an elected body to provide a community voice on public health issues.
- Governing: Generally mandated by state statutes. Members are appointed by an elected body or are directly elected. Their responsibilities include local health department governance, employment of the health officer, establishing public health policy, regulations, and fiscal oversight.
A balanced board of health represents the diversity of the community.
Bibliography
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); National Association of Local Boards of Health (NALBOH) (1997). National Profile of Local Boards of Health. Atlanta, GA: Author.
— NED E. BAKER
