[The public health office and its partners: perspectives on cooperation between public health offices and self-help organizations].

Besides the three existing health sector entities in Germany: hospitals, established doctors and public health departments, a fourth area has developed, consisting of self-help organisations with their self-help groups. Today self-help organisations have a very extensive knowledge about special diseases and handicaps. Combined with the psychological and social assistance which they afford, their knowledge helps the affected persons considerably. Nevertheless, this practical experience cannot replace the professionals' know-how. Within the local "Gemeinschaftsaufgabe Gesundheitsförderung" (common task of health promotion) the co-operation between laymen and professionals may be particularly supported by the Public Health Offices.