Link people to care or provide care: Some care is critical to public health, such as treatment for active tuberculosis, and so is often publicly provided. Other care services may be in the public sector by plan or default. Current trends are moving away from direct provision and emphasize developing access and assuring quality.

Prepare the workforce: The public health system should be in a position to assure the public that all health workers (those giving personal care and population-focused services) are prepared for their responsibilities.

Assure quality, accessible, effective services: This essential service is just beginning to get the attention it deserves from all components of the system.