An index of socioeconomic status has derived from a factor analysis of a number of variables. This index showed a high degree of association with selected indexes of health status, and is to be used as an evaluative, planning, and predictive tool.

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led to the planning of new phases of the public health program. Since modifications in nursing services were planned and under way, it seemed advisable to measure the present scope of services in order that future increases in staff and the development of existing and additional nursing service could be conducted on a sound basis.Alameda County Health Department serves the unincorporated area of Alameda County, and by contract, the cities of Hayward, Pleasanton, and San Leandro. A recent population estimate indicates that there are approximately 120,000 people to be served, in an area of 677.5 square miles. The population increased about 80 percent during the period 1940 to 1947. The problems of the area are both urban and rural, since the unincorporated territory surrounding the cities of San Leandro and Hayward has become predominantly urban because of the rapid population increase during and following the war. The southern and eastern parts of the county have remained a farming area, with several small trading centers.The department evolved from the local health Centers, supported by the Red Cross and county funds, and out-patient clinics of the county hospitals, and was first organized in 1932. School nursing service has always been a part of the generalized program; bedside nuirsing has never been included. During the 1946-47 school year, 42 schools, with a total enrollment of about 8,400 students, were given health service by contract.*Health officers, director, public health nursing and public health statistician, respectively. This study "'as conducted and analysis of the data made under two health officers, Dr. Moreland, health officer from the beginning of the study to November 1947; and Dr. Malcolm, present healtb officer of Alameda County.Calif.

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