Turnock's Public Health: What It Is and How It Works takes a clear, systems-based approach to examining the modern U.S. public health system-its structure, functions, operations, and significance.

The book is divided into two parts: Part I covers the fundamental components of public health practice in the 21st-century United States, while Part II presents case studies that illustrate public health in action. Together, these sections provide students with a comprehensive understanding of public health as both a system and a social enterprise, equipping them to apply their knowledge to real-world public health challenges, programs, and initiatives.

Offering the latest data, updated tables and new figures, the Eighth Edition also explores current concepts and trends including the 10 Essential Public Health Services (EPHS), Healthy People 2030, and health equity in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Other key updates include:

- New chapter on Pandemic and All-Hazards Public Health Preparedness emphasizes the critical lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the essential role of public health in safeguarding community health during emergencies.
- Unique public health administration chapters explore managing public health infrastructure and public health programs.
- New case studies on COVID-19, firearms and health, and substance use.
- Revised and expanded Out-of-the-Book Thinking boxes as well as discussion questions to engage students in exploring concepts more deeply.