FEDERAL FUNDING OF PUBLIC HEALTH: MIDWESTERN STATES GET THE LEAST
Volume 29, Issue 513 April 14, 2008
Matthew Gever
The federal government gives states approximately $10.5 billion per year for public health efforts such as disease prevention and disaster preparation. Agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dole out money based on state populations or a need-based formula for high priority projects. States can also apply for competitive grants.
However, a new report from the Trust for America’s Health reveals that federal funding for public health varies, often significantly, from state to state. Midwestern states receive the lowest amount, $16.24 per person, below the national average of $17.23. Southern states receive the highest, collecting an average of $29.40 per person. The report also rates states and localities according to how much they spend on public health.
Trust officials say that making public health budgets more transparent would help rectify any disparities. This also would allow governments to better identify best practices in public health, with the funds distributed accordingly.
© Copyright 2008, State Health Notes
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