Public health is the science of preventive health of the general public. A public health physician is concerned with prevention of disease by promoting vaccinations and immunizations and other public health services. This physician may have a background in epidemiology, or environmental, behavioral or occupational health. The public health physician may also direct health programs for governmental or private agencies. This specialist analyzes community health trends, and may consult with other physicians, community organizations or welfare agencies.

Doctor density varies by specialty and location. Colorado has 43 practicing public health doctors. Broken out by city, public health doctor density in Alamosa is 1, in Aspen is 1, in Aurora is 3, in Boulder is 3, in Colorado Springs is 1, in Conifer is 1, in Denver is 20, in Englewood is 3, in Evergreen is 1, in Fort Carson is 2, in Fort Collins is 4, in Golden is 1, in Grand Junction is 2, in Greenwood Village is 3, in Lafayette is 1, in Littleton is 1, in Longmont is 1, in Montrose is 1, in Ouray is 1, in Pueblo is 1, and in Westminster is 1.

Colorado is the Centennial state; having won statehood in 1876. Its capital is Denver, called the “Mile High City,” because its altitude at the state capitol steps is 5,280 feet. Colorado’s population is 4,653,023, and over half the state’s population is in the Denver metro area. Known for its Rocky Mountains and abundant outdoor sports opportunities, such as skiing, hiking, fishing and hunting, Colorado also offers tourists Pike’s Peak, the Royal Gorge, and the Red Rocks outdoor amphitheater. Denver is home to an active theater culture, a world-class symphony, and many sports activities. You can visit a gold mine, tour the state capitol building, climb a mountain, or relax in some therapeutic natural hot springs.

According to 2005 Census estimates, Colorado has a population of 4,665,177. Of this population, 1,140,002 are under the age of 18 and 462,190 are at or above the age of 65.