Population-focused health refers to assessing the health care needs of a specific population and making health care decisions for the population as a whole rather than for individuals.  The promotion of health and prevention of illness is the focus of this course.  Primary prevention strategies for populations at risk are emphasized to promote and protect health, and prevent disease across the life span.  Local, state and national health policies, political and economic influences will be part of the analysis of community issues and activities.  A collaborative approach is taken in community assessment, decision making, planning, implementation and evaluation throughout community health nursing practice.