Structures involved in the field of public health in Côte D’ivoire

Introduction: Côte d'Ivoire has established several structures working in the field of public health since its independence in 1960, to deal with health problems. More than five decades later, a study has been conducted by the National Public Health Institute with the objective to realize a situation analysis of public health structures. Methods : This study was a cross sectional study with descriptive purpose carried out in Abidjan in 2012, with 26 structures involved in the field of public health and from different ministries in Côte d’Ivoire. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The data analysis was done using Epi Info software. Results : Of the 26 structures identified, 23 have participated in the study. Most public health activities were carried out by eight (08) Technical Ministries. 15 of the 23 structures depended of the Ministry in charge of health. A large proportion of the budget of these structures was allocated to public health statutory missions such as training (15/23) and research (12/23). Among the facilities visited, the most essential functions of public health were found research (11/23) and training (11/23). An average of 46.50% of the structures budget was allocated to health promotion. 737 agents on the strength of 3539 officers of all structures visited, had received training in public health. Discussion: Several challenges remain by health authorities, including the balance between available resources and the needs of structures and better coordination of the structures involved in the field of public health in particular through the establishment of structures coordination, allow the country to have efficient public health institutions.