Strategic Implementation of an Environmental Hygiene Unit at the Niedersächsisches Landesgesundheitsamt (NLGA): A Process and Needs-Based Approach

The Steate Health Office of Lower Saxony (NLGA) is initiating the development of a new Environmental Hygiene Unit to address emerging environmental health challenges and leverage optimization opportunities. This study combines an internal process analysis with an external needs assessment to identify potential improvements and align the unit with both internal structures and the requirements of external stakeholders, particularly health authorities across Lower Saxony. The internal process analysis focuses on evaluating existing workflows, resource allocation, and communication structures within the NLGA. Simultaneously, the external needs assessment gathers insights from local health authorities via surveys, with a particular emphasis on environmental hygiene practices and the type of support expected from the NLGA. The collected data are integrated through a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Key environmental health issues such as waterborne and vector-borne diseases, air pollution, noise exposure, and the health impacts of climate change underscore the necessity of a long-term, interdisciplinary approach. The study presents strategic recommendations aimed at enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of the NLGA’s environmental hygiene services to meet public health needs amidst rising environmental pressures. Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and continuous resource development, these recommendations position the NLGA as a potential model for other state health agencies, contributing to the overall strengthening of environmental hygiene across Germany. This initiative lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and effective public health protection framework nationwide.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
11. März 2025