Week 6 Lecture

These flashcards cover key concepts and events related to the Walkerton case in the context of environmental health and public policy.

What is environmental health?

The study of how human health is impacted by environmental factors.

What major event is discussed in the context of public health and policy in this lecture?

The Walkerton tragedy.

What bacteria caused the illness in Walkerton's water supply?

E. coli 0157:H7 and Campylobacter.

What is a key focus of the environmental stewardship model?

Preventing illness by maintaining a healthy environment.

How does the government typically respond to environmental policies?

More favorably towards health policies than environmental policies.

What led to the contamination of Walkerton's water supply?

Runoff of cattle manure into a shallow well after a rain event.

What is the significance of the ‘Swiss cheese model’ in risk management?

It describes how multiple failures need to align for a disaster to occur.

What is a public inquiry?

An investigation into significant public issues intended to understand causes and develop policies to prevent recurrence.

Why is privatization often discussed in relation to public services?

It involves transferring responsibilities from the public sector to private entities.

What governmental action was taken shortly before the Walkerton tragedy?

The passing of the Water and Sewer Services Improvement Act.

What accountability mechanisms relate to public health service delivery post-Walkerton?

Increased regulations and oversight of water testing and public health communication.

What was the public reaction to the Walkerton tragedy?

Increased demand for oversight and accountability in water safety.

What does ‘scope of conflict’ refer to in policy discussions?

The range of stakeholders involved in a policy issue and their engagement levels.

How did the media play a role in shaping public perception of the Walkerton incident?

It increased visibility and awareness of the health risks and led to public outcry.

What is the precautionary principle?

The principle of acting to prevent harm even when scientific certainty is lacking.

What does the environmental health profession aim to do?

Assess and manage environmental risks to human health.

What were the outcomes of the O'Connor inquiry into Walkerton?

121 recommendations for improving water safety and management were implemented.

What is an example of an externality in relation to the Walkerton case?

The health consequences suffered by residents due to contaminated water.

What mistaken belief is often associated with public goods?

That healthcare and water services qualify as public goods.

What are public-private partnerships?

Collaborations between government entities and private organizations for service delivery.

What did participants in the Walkerton inquiry provide?

Testimonies, evidence, and recommendations for policy reforms.

What is meant by ‘bad apple theory’ concerning fault in public policy failures?

The idea that a single individual’s incompetence led to widespread issues.

What regulatory changes were made following the Walkerton inquiry?

Reinstated inspections and communication requirements for water quality.

Why is it important to understand the roles and responsibilities defined by the Constitution Act in policy?

It clarifies jurisdiction and authority in managing public health issues.

What does the term ‘accountability’ mean in the context of health policy?

Responsibility to stakeholders for actions taken and policies implemented.

How does herd immunity serve as a public good?

It protects the entire population by ensuring widespread vaccination.

What is one major limitation of privatization according to the lecture?

It can lead to cost-cutting measures that jeopardize public safety.

How did the Walkerton tragedy affect future regulations in Ontario?

It led to stricter laws regarding water quality and environmental health.

What resulted from the government’s narrative control after the Walkerton incident?

Framing the issue as an isolated incompetence rather than systemic failures.

What ongoing debates does the Walkerton disaster evoke?

Discussions about governmental policy, public trust, and environmental responsibility.

What was the primary aim of the recommendations in the O'Connor report?

To ensure a safe water supply and prevent similar public health crises.

What lesson does the case of Walkerton teach about health policy?

The critical importance of environmental health in public health outcomes.