Chapter 3 The Source of Law and Regulations 57 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Local Governments Local governments have a variety of organizational models and are involved in healthcare beyond their role as employers providing employee benefits. Many local governments, such as county health departments, are also direct or indirect providers of healthcare for the homeless, even if only in emergencies. Consider when an ambulance departs to assist a person. In almost all such cases, the local government’s fire and res- cue, general hospital, or contracted provider act during this first medical intervention. Beyond emergency situations, many local governments initiate ordinances related to health, such as smoking regulations. Local govern- ments also are involved in school health programs, public health activ- ities, and ownership and operation of hospitals and clinics. It is evident that local government has one of the most important roles in healthcare delivery itself.