title: [Public health--mission and science].
abstract: The authors present an outline of historical development of the ideas of public health and its practical introduction to modern societies. They discuss the range and contents of modern definitions of public health as well as different models of organization and financing of public health institutions and programs. The article stresses importance of state supported public health system as the most efficient measure to improve conditions of health in the society.
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Miller
authors.forename: Andrzej
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Zieliński
mesh_terms: D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018166:Health Care Reform / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D009313:National Health Programs / Q000592:standards; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000592:standards*; D011044:Poland; D011634:Public Health / Q000592:standards*; D011635:Public Health Administration / Q000592:standards*