Summary
Public policy and epidemiology function in a dynamic environment influenced by political, economic, social, and other factors. As demonstrated by the national health goal to eliminate health disparities among population groups by 2010, it will be important to have policies that demonstrate an understanding of societal determinants of health. Public policies related to vaccine preventable diseases have a long history of dependency on epidemiological data as demonstrated by the public health achievements over the last century. However, as the public becomes more educated, policy aware, and possessive of their investment in policy decisions, consideration must be given to the power and clarity of epidemiological data, their interpretation, and their usability. Mandatory Hep B vaccination for infants and preschool children is an example of a complex array of issues and opinions, strong advocacy from health providers and public health departments for continuing mandatory vaccines, and opposition from some parents who are equally as dedicated to eliminating mandatory Hep B vaccines for all infants and preschool children for a variety of reasons. In addition to antigovernment sentiments associated with health department control (mandatory immunizations), opponents to mandatory vaccination devalue the importance of herd immunity and systematically chal- lenge the science and outcomes of related Hep B vaccine studies, particularly adverse events. As more vaccines are developed and mandated, opportunities for debate and challenges can be expected, particularly by the public.Successful public health policy based on epidemiological data depends on the quality and strength of the evidence, interactions with multiple stake- holders, and the clarity with which this information is communicated to the public.
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Shannon, I.R. (2002). Epidemiology and the Public Policy Process. In: Oleske, D.M. (eds) Epidemiology and the Delivery of Health Care Services. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/0-306-47557-X_12
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