Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
4. Future challenges and research needs:
The specific modifications, refinements, enhancements, and even
novel approaches that will improve our ability to detect and respond
to public health threats are far too numerous to be enumerated in
the space here. Some of these are ably characterized in the ensuing
chapters of this topic. Rather, we will point out here some larger
themes that will need to be addressed, regardless of which specific
endeavor or nuanced “tweak” is promoted and adopted. A few of
the paramount challenges that need to be addressed in the future
are as follows; we need to:
•
Refine and continually recommit the process to develop public health
surveillance and other detection systems on the basis of
user needs
.
This requires full comprehension of the complex operations of the
public health system, as well as recognition that, in rapidly develop-
ing situations, the information needs—and the means of satisfying
them—may be evolving at a similarly brisk pace.
Develop the political will at all levels of government, not simply the
•
federal level, to support a viable and stable workforce that is well-
positioned and committed to facing the dynamic public health chal-
lenges in the 21st century—those of emerging infectious diseases,
changes in the environment, and other novel threats that will no
doubt arise as the world population grows in a setting in which
global resources are ultimately finite.
Continue to support the capacity to develop and deploy novel rapid
•
diagnostic tests. The laboratory plays a critical role in effective
response by characterizing the nature of the threat, proving a sense
of the distribution and scope of the health threat, and in guiding the
choice and implementation of treatment and preventive measures.
17.5 Conclusions
Designing and operating a public health surveillance system is a rather straight-
forward exercise, almost menu-like in some regards, especially for those expe-
rienced in addressing operational issues in a complex and often politically
charged environment. Creating a successful one is much more challenging. Be
clear, first and foremost, about the intent or purpose of the detection system
that you wish to build. Consult with all the key stakeholders who will use or be
affected by your surveillance system. Only when you are confident that you can
succinctly articulate what their needs and concerns are, and how this system
