BETHESDA, Md.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–At the launch of the autumn flu season and amid a rash of
weather-related disasters affecting many states, nine in 10 registered
voters (89%) believe public health departments play an important role in
the health of their community, according to a new
poll released today by the de Beaumont Foundation.
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Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies, the poll found that two-thirds
of Americans believe state government should ensure that every community
has access to basic public health protections, including:
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stopping the spread of communicable diseases (8.5 on a 10.0 point
scale);
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bringing together other government agencies in emergencies (8.4);
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protecting air and water quality (8.4); and
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supporting child and maternal health (8.3).
A majority of voters (57%) said they would pay more in taxes to ensure
access to these basic public health protections.
“Americans overwhelmingly value the protections public health
departments deliver and want to ensure that every community has them,”
said Brian C. Castrucci, DrPH, chief executive officer of the de
Beaumont Foundation. “While Americans seem divided on so many issues
this election year, they are united in their support for public health
because they understand the vital role it plays in their communities.”
This support for public health crosses political party, geography,
gender, race, age, education, and income. The consensus support for
public health was driven by overwhelming majorities of African Americans
(85%), self-identified liberals (78%), Hispanics (75%), mothers (74%),
working class people (72%), and Northeasterners (71%). Also expressing
support were majorities of white men (53%), self-described conservatives
(55%), and fathers (51%).
The poll highlights opportunities to broaden support for public health,
by demonstrating the value of public service departments to voters who
expressed support with less intensity than other groups — including
high-income voters and men who self-identified as Republicans, ages 18
to 54, college-educated, white, fathers, or soft Democrats.
The poll surveyed 1,000 voters nationally, with an over-sample of 498
voters in rural areas and has a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent for
the national sample and +/- 3.7 percent for the rural over-sample.
Public Opinion Strategies conducted the poll via telephone between Aug.
31 and Sept. 8, 2018.
For more information about the de Beaumont Foundation, visit www.debeaumont.org/
About the de Beaumont Foundation
The de Beaumont Foundation advances policy, builds partnerships, and
strengthens public health to create communities where people can achieve
their best possible health.
Carl Riedel is an esteemed online researcher and writer, specializing in the intersection of technology and wellness. As a member of the International Association of Therapists, Carl brings a unique perspective to his work, skillfully integrating insights from therapy and digital trends. His articles help readers navigate the complexities of the digital age with an emphasis on promoting mental and emotional well-being.