Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

According to the CDC, the current focus of U.S. health systems on tertiary prevention is most likely to produce which outcome?

1. Minimize overall prevalence of the disease or condition in the population

2. Minimize overall financial expenditures for treatment of the disease or condition

3. Minimize the cost of lost wages from the disease or condition

4. Minimize or delay mortality from the disease or condition

The correct answer is: Minimize or delay mortality from the disease or condition

The focus of health systems on tertiary prevention is primarily aimed at managing and reducing the impact of a disease or condition after it has already been diagnosed. Tertiary prevention involves strategies designed to help patients manage long-term, complex health problems effectively and improve their quality of life. This can include measures such as rehabilitation programs, ongoing medical treatment, and supportive services that aim to minimize or delay mortality. By concentrating on tertiary prevention, health systems work to prevent further deterioration of health, manage complications, and ultimately prolong life for those with chronic conditions or following serious health events. This approach recognizes that while the disease may not be curable, effective management can still lead to significant improvements in longevity and quality of life. The other options, while related to health outcomes, do not capture the primary intent of tertiary prevention. For instance, minimizing overall prevalence pertains more to primary and secondary prevention efforts that focus on preventing disease before it occurs or catching it early. Minimizing financial expenditures and lost wages relates more to economic efficiency and workplace productivity rather than the direct health outcomes associated with disease management. Therefore, the outcome most aligned with the goals of tertiary prevention is the minimization or delay of mortality associated with a disease or condition.