Federal Influence on State Health Policy

This paper reports on research that was intended to demonstrate the impact of federal programs on state health policy goals. The sample included four Public Health Service programs (Health Planning and Resources Development, Nurse Training, Cooperative Health Statistics and the Community Mental Health Centers program) in six states (Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, Oregon, South Carolina, and Texas).

The authors conclude that, in general, states' political environments tailor program implementation to suit state preferences.