County of Marin Health and Human Services

Core Functions of the Community Epidemiology Program

Surveillance

The systematic ongoing or episodic collection, analysis, and interpretation of health-related data essential to the planning, implementation& evaluation of public health practice, closely integrated with the timely dissemination of these data to those responsible for prevention and control.

Investigation

  • Investigate unusual acute and chronic conditions or other health risks in a population, using epidemiological methods and data.
  • Health Research: Design, study, and collect necessary data. Perform analyses for the purpose of answering specific questions & expanding the knowledge base of a topic.
  • Emergent: Support or conduct data related components of outbreak & emergency events.

Analysis/Assessment

  • Identify, or respond to, public health problems
  • Design analysis plans, assess & assure data quality
  • Conduct analyses, interpret & summarize results, draw conclusions
  • Recommend interventions/control measures in partnership with key stakeholders
  • Distribute/communicate findings; provide technical assistance as necessary

Communication

Present findings to a range of audiences using appropriate and effective communication methods.

Data-Related Consulting

  • Collect, assemble, analyze & interpret data to inform decision making
  • Guide & educate others on how to use data and where to access data
  • Support program staff in identifying available data to support program objectives & outcomes, and collecting data where appropriate.