A framework and user guide have been developed for environmental public health staff, and other public health agencies or departments that deal with environmental health issues, to help identify potential actions on the social determinants of health and health equity.
This 2015 position statement from the Canadian Pediatric Society reviews literature on the impact of housing on health, roles for primary health care providers, and recommendations for action at multiple levels (from patient to policy level).
I (Raymond) have been a Public Health Inspector (PHI) for over 15 years and currently fulfill the role of Environmental Health Specialist with Toronto Public Health (TPH) within the Healthy Environments directorate.
Looking back at the last 10 years I have worked in the field of environmental health, the most memorable and rewarding career moments all involved connecting with the public, educating others and effecting change. These are the moments that inspire me and motivate me to continue my career in public health.
In over 20 years of working in public health, I have seen how Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) can be effective advocates for individual clients, but knowing when to intervene in an individual case in the name of public health can be a challenge.