What is a public health observatory?

摘要: The dictionary definition of an observatory is1: The word “observatory” is well understood. However, there no clear consensus and little discussion about what constitutes in the many new contexts which term applied. adoption this description for a public health function warrants explanation following reasons: Firstly, clarity nature institution, especially necessary to inform others’ expectations. functions of, example, cancer registry, are understood, services information that can be expected from them clear. Developing established identity observatories essential, both ensure potential users partners may effectively access their services, they adhere remit rather than becoming umbrella organisations disparate functions. Experiences at Northern Yorkshire Public Health Observatory confirm professionals colleagues other agencies still unclear is. Secondly, some joint understanding facilitate negotiation collaboration between observatories, international partners. Regional already found parts Europe (France, Italy, Belgium, Switzerland), superficially these seem have much common. Thirdly, if trend labelling increasing number institutions “observatories” continues, then danger title cliched lacking substance, could detract value label lend institution. There has been change language used defining institutions: old …