[ARCHIVES] VALUABLE KNOWLEDGE
Learning opportunities as listed in the DPH Communications Newsletter
For the lifelong learners in all of us.
📅 10/05/2023
📖 READ | Public Health related articles, stories, and interviews.
CDC Releases State of Vaccine Confidence Report for Rural America | The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has unveiled the Vaccination in Rural America State of Vaccine Confidence Report, a comprehensive analysis of vaccine confidence and adoption rates within rural communities in the United States spanning from 2017 to 2023. This report offers crucial insights into the attitudes and behaviors surrounding vaccinations in these areas. For further context and historical perspectives, previous editions of CDC's State of Vaccine Confidence Insights Reports can be accessed here.
Seven Emergency Preparedness Exercises for Health Agencies | The Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) provides a standardized and adaptable framework for preparing, testing, evaluating, and training individuals tasked with responding to a range of health crises. From infectious disease control to environmental health and healthcare facility management, this structured approach ensures uniformity in crisis response. HSEEP encompasses seven exercise types, categorized as either discussion-based or operations-based, offering a comprehensive toolset to enhance our collective ability to effectively navigate the complexities of diverse health crises. Infographic:
Seven Emergency Preparedness Exercises for Health Agencies Infographic
🎧 LISTEN | Public Health related podcasts, insights, and interviews.
PMMWR Weekly Briefing - Oct 4 | This episode covers four key MMWR reports. Firstly, cases of locally acquired malaria in Florida and Texas underscore the vital need for swift diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods, despite low risk in the U.S. Second, over 33 million African children lack a measles vaccine, emphasizing the urgency to ramp up immunization to avert outbreaks and fatalities. Third, the JYNNEOS vaccine safeguards against hospitalization for those with mpox, including those with HIV. Lastly, norovirus emerged as the primary cause of illness for over two dozen hikers on Washington's Pacific Crest Trail.
The Institute for Global Tobacco Control Turns 25 - Sep 25 | Established in 1998, the Institute for Global Tobacco Control at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health has emerged as a worldwide frontrunner in combating the global tobacco crisis. In honor of the Institute's 25th year, Joanna Cohen, IGTC's director, and its inaugural director, Jonathan Samet, sit down with Stephanie Desmon to discuss the historical, current, and forthcoming battle against tobacco.
📺 WATCH | Public Health related webinars, trainings, and stories.
ASTHO informatics and innovation leaders convened to explore Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its potential applications in state and territorial public health. The speakers addressed key inquiries, such as:
What is AI?
How is AI used in other sectors?
What concerns do public health practitioners have about AI?
What experimental applications are emerging in public health?
What risks and considerations should be factored into AI strategy?
📅 09/21/2023
📖 READ | Public Health related articles, stories, and interviews.
Evolving View of Vaccination: COVID-19, FLU, AND RSV | The Harvard Opinion Research Program, in collaboration with ASTHO and NPHIC, is conducting surveys to gauge public sentiment on COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. The goal is to generate solid evidence for informing broad strategy and messaging across various initiatives. THIS MEMO highlights findings from the second nationwide survey of 2023, conducted from July 7 to 16, involving 1,430 U.S. adults. The insights derived have implications for state, territorial, and local health departments, which can help shape communication and outreach efforts.
Legal Mapping of Harm Reduction Laws and Overdose Prevention Legislation | Dive into the intersection of Public Health and law, understanding the significance of legal mapping. The process involves a meticulous analysis of state laws pertaining to specific legal subjects, either at a specific moment (cross-sectional) or across a span of time (longitudinal). READ MORE
Reducing Overdose Through Policy Interventions: Recommendations for State and Territorial Health Officials and Agencies | In a recent publication in the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice (JPHMP), ASTHO staff collaborated to spotlight CDC's provisional data, uncovering a staggering loss of over 107,000 lives to drug overdoses between 2021 and 2022. State and territorial health officials are redoubling their efforts, implementing crucial harm reduction policies to combat this alarming surge in overdose rates. READ MORE
Preparedness Policy Highlights for Trending Public Health Threats | National Preparedness Month prompts reflection on recent public health emergencies, particularly in light of evolving policies post-COVID-19. At the federal level, the reauthorization of the Pandemic and All Hazards Preparedness Act is underway. Meanwhile, states are proactively proposing legislation to bolster readiness for wildfires, fortify school safety, elevate cybersecurity measures, and tackle pressing hospital challenges. READ MORE
🎧 LISTEN | Public Health related podcasts, insights, and interviews.
Partnering to Prevent Overdoses / Sep 18 | This episode of Public Health Review engages in a candid conversation with experts, Brandon del Pozo, a former police officer now serving as an assistant professor at Brown University, Joy Rucker from the Black Harm Reduction Network, and Dr. Cathy Slemp, former state health commissioner of West Virginia and current vice chair of the West Virginia Hope in Action Alliance. Together, they share invaluable insights on the vital role of maintaining robust relationships while navigating varying strategies in the realm of public health.
National Food Safety Education Month: What a Health Department Does to Keep Our Food Safe / Sep 15 | Cari Sledzik, an epidemiologist at the Baltimore City Health Department, discusses the investigative process behind foodborne illness outbreaks and the crucial role of local health departments. Dr. Josh Sharfstein delves into how outbreaks are traced and managed once the source is identified. In this Food Safety Education Month episode, Sledzik provides practical tips to prevent foodborne illnesses and reduce the risk of getting sick. Learn how to safeguard your health with the FDA’s Food Safety Education Month resources.
📅 09/07/2023
📖 READ | Public Health related articles, stories, and interviews.
Advancing Preparedness for Life Support Users During Power Outages | Power outages pose life-threatening challenges for individuals reliant on electric medical devices, particularly given the increasing frequency of outages linked to natural disasters. Climate Central's report outlines strategies for jurisdictions to better assist these individuals during power outages, from practical measures to more extensive programs, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure their safety. ACCESS REPORT HERE
States Aim to Improve Outcomes for People Experiencing Substance Use During Pregnancy | In 2020, overdose-related deaths among pregnant and postpartum individuals in the United States surged to a record high, marking a 46% increase from 2019. In response, state legislators are actively addressing this critical issue by implementing and considering legislation aimed at enhancing access to care for pregnant individuals dealing with substance use disorder. READ MORE
Using Data and Effective Messaging to Support Strong Vaccine Policy | In the last three years, state legislatures have considered over 2,000 vaccine-related bills. Some bills aimed to expand vaccination access, while others sought to restrict it. Recent pandemic-driven changes, like new laws in Virginia and West Virginia, have expanded healthcare professionals' roles in vaccine administration. Additionally, federal liability coverage for pharmacy professionals administering COVID-19 and influenza vaccines has been extended until December 2024, which may influence future state legislation. Using data, evidence-based policies, and trusted messengers is vital as we transition post-pandemic to maintain and strengthen vaccine policies for public health. READ MORE
🎧 LISTEN | Public Health related podcasts, insights, and interviews.
MMWR Weekly Briefing / Sept. 5 | West Nile virus continues as the most common mosquito-borne disease in the U.S., with almost 3,000 cases reported in 2021. The CDC has released its first-ever 'Sepsis Core Elements' to help hospitals strengthen their sepsis programs. Furthermore, the CDC has published its 2023-24 influenza vaccination recommendations, advising that everyone 6 months and older should get their annual flu shot, ideally in September or October. The CDC also recommends a new preventive tool for severe respiratory syncytial virus, the leading cause of infant hospitalizations.
Cutting-Edge Program Boosts Public Health Leadership Skills / Aug. 28 | In this episode, ASTHO highlights the graduates from their Essentials of Leadership and Management (ELM) training in Kentucky, featuring Shannon Rome from the Franklin County Health Department and Elizabeth Anderson-Hoagland from the Kentucky Department of Public Health. They discuss the program's positive impact on their work and leadership growth. Avia Mason from ASTHO emphasizes the influence of ELM on public health practitioners and its potential to improve organizational culture and workplace well-being.
📺 WATCH | Public Health related webinars, trainings, and stories.
COVID-19 Questions and Answers / Aug. 25 | CDC Director, Dr. Mandy Cohen, answers common questions about COVID-19.
📅 08/25/2023
📖 READ | Public Health related articles, stories, and interviews.
Congressional Priorities for the Summer that Impact Public Health | With the fiscal year concluding on September 30, federal lawmakers face critical public health tasks, including annual appropriations, renewing the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act, and tackling urgent concerns like the opioid crisis and drug shortages. READ MORE
Responding to Environmental Health Threats Following Hurricanes | In recent events, Hurricane Nicole's impact on Florida's east coast underscores the risks of natural disasters to community infrastructure and public health. Post-hurricane, various environmental health risks like contaminated floodwaters, mold growth, and damaged power lines persist, necessitating coordinated responses from state and territorial health agencies, local counterparts, and partners. READ MORE
Recent Federal and State Actions to Limit Flavored Tobacco Products | Since the 1970s, tobacco firms have used flavored products to attract new, often young consumers and enhance taste while reducing harshness. The 2009 Tobacco Control Act empowered the FDA for tobacco product oversight. Nevertheless, specific groups using menthol cigarettes saw sustained or increased rates. Menthol cigarettes, historically targeted at Black and vulnerable communities, remain concerning due to their uneven impact. Young people tend to initiate and persist with menthol cigarette use. READ MORE
🎧 LISTEN | Public Health related podcasts, insights, and interviews.
AI in Public Health, Hurricane Environmental Health Surveillance | Dr. Kris Mork from Guidehouse emphasizes inclusive AI development, Heidi Bojes from the Texas Department of State Health Services highlights integrating environmental health surveillance into hurricane response, an ASTHO blog addresses diverse hurricane threats, and ASTHO offers a webpage for funding, RFPs, and collaboration. LISTEN HERE
Over-the-Counter Naloxone, Hurricane Partnerships | Richa Ranade, ASTHO’s Senior Director of Overdose Prevention, advocates expanding access with ASTHO's over-the-counter naloxone policy. Chris Medina, State Medical Operations Center Director at the Texas Department of State Health Services, outlines hurricane response readiness, and ASTHO hosts a virtual event on Artificial Intelligence in Public Health. LISTEN HERE
📺 WATCH | Public Health related webinars, trainings, and stories.
Vaccine Equity: Combating COVID-19 Misinformation | Listen to Culture ONE World and CMRignite representatives as they showcase effective strategies for recognizing and rectifying misinformation. They will also delve into methods to support the groups most susceptible to encountering and being swayed by misleading information. WATCH HERE
📅 08/18/2023
📖 READ | Public Health related articles, stories, and interviews.
Effective Public Health Approaches to Reducing Congenital Syphilis | Congenital syphilis rates are sharply rising in the US, with over 2,800 cases reported in 2021 alone, causing severe outcomes like stillbirth and developmental issues. The ASTHO's Technical Package offers policy-level solutions, focusing on pregnancy, to tackle this issue, while being regularly updated with new CDC guidance. READ MORE
State and Federal Actions to Reduce Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances’ Impact on Public Health | Communities across the US are pursuing legal action against PFAS manufacturers due to groundwater contamination, with settlements like 3M's $10.3 billion agreement and others from chemical companies addressing public water systems. PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," pose health risks and are found widely, prompting efforts by policymakers to eliminate them from water sources. READ MORE
Fathers and Partners are Crucial to the Breastfeeding Community | ASTHO, in partnership with the CDC, aids State Physical and Nutrition (SPAN) recipients in implementing evidence-based breastfeeding policies through the Breastfeeding Learning Community (BLC), enhancing state health agencies' capacity. ASTHO engaged in conversation with Samuel Walker from Learn Lactate Grow's "Java Jam," an initiative supporting fathers experiencing the birthing and lactation journey alongside their partners. READ THE CONVERSATION
🎧 LISTEN | Public Health related podcasts, stories, and interviews.
Back-to-School Water Dollars, Youth Mental Health Partnerships | Wendi Wilkes from EPA outlines a lead testing program for schools, while Heather Sebero of ASTHO emphasizes the effectiveness of partnering with community-based organizations for mental health. ASTHO resources highlight the impact of physical environment on health, and stay informed through ASTHO's Legislative alert emails. LISTEN HERE
Back-to-School Air Quality, HAI Outbreak Framework | Kerry Wyss of ASTHO discusses addressing school air quality concerns via focus groups, Dawn Terashita from Los Angeles County Health introduces CORHA's standardized infection notification framework, and ASTHO plans a virtual discussion on Contraception Access Learning Community. LISTEN HERE
🛠️ USE | Tools that may help you in your Public Health work
Developing Leadership is a key process to help communities mobilize for targeted action and intervention.
Developing an Intervention toolkit provides supports for developing core components of a community intervention and adapting them to fit the context.
Voluntary Best Practices to Advance Data Sharing is a new 36 page playbook, jointly released by America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the National Association of Accountable Care Organizations (NAACOS), offers guidance on data-sharing standards for stakeholders in value-based care.
📅 08/11/2023
📖 AI in Public Health | The increasing accessibility of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools has piqued interest in the public health sector, offering potential applications of AI and machine learning. The American Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) has observed this growing curiosity and acknowledges the relevance of AI in public health data modernization and population health innovation. While recognizing the benefits, ASTHO emphasizes the importance of ethical and responsible AI use, ensuring privacy, accuracy, fairness, and societal welfare. This blog post marks the beginning of ASTHO's exploration of AI to educate and assist its members in navigating this field. READ MORE
📖 ASTHO’s Public Health Legal Mapping Center | The intricate relationship between Public Health and law significantly influences community dynamics and individual experiences. Legal mapping involves a systematic analysis of state laws related to a specific legal subject, either at a specific moment (cross-sectional) or over time (longitudinal). Here, ASTHO showcases its legal mapping endeavors, aiming to visualize the legal framework surrounding public health priorities. This initiative commences by examining policies focused on overdose prevention. READ MORE
📖 Building Capacity to Navigate the Prevention of Suicide, Overdose, and Adverse Childhood Experiences | As suicide and overdose rates rise, and with a spotlight on youth mental health, health agencies are collaborating with diverse partners to create unconventional solutions to these behavioral health challenges. In 2021, there were 48,183 suicides, 1.7 million nonfatal suicide attempts, and an estimated 106,699 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. These tragedies often impact parents and caregivers, affecting around 7% of children nationally who experience parental loss. Research indicates that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) contribute to higher suicide and overdose risks, particularly when involving substance misuse. READ MORE
🎧 RSV Messaging, Emergency Contraception | Gain insights from experts featured in an ASTHO online briefing discussing the upcoming RSV season. Discover perspectives from Sophia Durant, ASTHO's Analyst of Family and Child Health, as she highlights the significance of access to emergency contraception as a health equity matter. Also, delve into an ASTHO virtual session that delves into the possibilities of artificial intelligence in public health. LISTEN HERE
🎧 Health Data Modernization, Senate Appropriations Bill | ASTHO President Dr. Anne Zink, who serves as the Chief Medical Officer for Alaska, emphasizes that policy presents the most significant hurdle in the journey of public health data modernization. Carolyn Mullen, ASTHO's Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Relations, provides insights into the Senate's proposed Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill for the year 2024. LISTEN HERE
🛠️ Community Toolbox | Tools that may help you in your Public Health work
📅 08/04/2023
Interesting health related topics to catch up on. 📖Read / 📺Watch / 🎧Listen
📖 Supporting Positive Mental Health in Early Childhood | Ensuring positive mental health in early childhood is crucial for lifelong mental and physical well-being. Nurturing responsive relationships between caregivers and children is key to preventing the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), with caregiver mental health also being considered an ACE. State health organizations play a vital role in supporting interventions and policies to foster positive mental health in young children and their caregivers, potentially preventing 44% of adult depressive disorders by eliminating ACEs through early support and interventions. READ HERE
📖 State Policies Bolster Investment in Community Health Workers | Community health workers (CHWs), trusted public health workers with deep community understanding, are often employed for short-term responses rather than long-term positions. Integrating CHWs into public health and healthcare systems can improve access to care in underserved areas, and policymakers and allies are recognizing their ability to address population health challenges through dedicated funding, workforce development programs, certification standards, and Medicaid coverage support. READ HERE
📖 Virtual Food Safety Inspection Guide | Discover the strength of virtual food safety inspections in this infographic! See how they aid in routine maintenance, follow-up, education, and fostering stronger relationships between inspectors and businesses. Success stories from states already implementing virtual inspections are highlighted, showcasing their effectiveness in safeguarding public health. INFOGRAPHIC HERE
🎧 ASTHO Releases Authority Policy Statement, CDC Kicks Off School Vaccination Campaign | Andy Baker-White, ASTHO’s Senior Director of State Health Policy, presents three new policy recommendations on Public Health Legal Authority. Dr. Georgina Peacock, Director of the Immunization Services Division at CDC, raises concerns over vaccine coverage among kindergarten children, reaching a decade low. Learn how Rhode Island successfully added 28 permanent staff positions in an ASTHO blog. LISTEN HERE
🛠️ Community Toolbox | Tools that may help you in your Public Health work
📅 07/28/2023
Interesting health related topics to catch up on. 📖Read / 📺Watch / 🎧Listen
📖 Preparing for the Next Pandemic or Public Health Crisis | ASTHO staff and Thomas Dobbs (alumni-MS) collaborated on a commentary published in the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice. The article emphasizes the lessons learned from COVID-19 and other recent crises, highlighting the significance of accurate communication, depoliticizing public health, securing funding, and implementing policy solutions to better prepare for future outbreaks. Moreover, the piece emphasizes the critical role of health equity and community engagement in ensuring effective pandemic responses. READ HERE
📖 Xylazine: What Health Agencies Need to Know | The United States is facing a concerning overdose epidemic, with over 100,000 lives lost in 2022, mainly attributed to illicit fentanyl combined with opioids and stimulants. Recently, xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer, has infiltrated the drug supply, posing a serious threat to people who use drugs and complicating overdose prevention efforts nationwide. Xylazine is not authorized for human use by the FDA and is increasingly detected in opioid samples in various regions. The drug is commonly referred to as "tranq" or "tranq dope" and can be ingested through multiple routes, making it even more dangerous. READ HERE
🎧 Data Strategies to Improve Health Outcomes for Indigenous Communities | Experts - Ed Ehlinger, Janelle Palacios, and Katelyn Strasser - discuss the health disparities faced by American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations due to social and economic barriers. They highlight the importance of solid data to inform policies that can improve healthcare systems for AI/AN communities and address stigmas impacting the health of AI/AN mothers and infants. The experts also delve into the recent report by the Federal Advisory Committee on Infant and Maternal Mortality, which provides data-focused recommendations for states and territories to address AI/AN health outcomes. LISTEN HERE
🛠️ Community Toolbox | Tools that may help you in your Public Health work
📅 07/21/2023
Some of this week’s most interesting health related topics to catch up on.
📜 ASTHO Legislative Alert - FY24 House Appropriations Bill | On July 13, the House Labor Health and Human Services and Education (LHHS) appropriations subcommittee released its proposed funding levels for the FY24 LHHS appropriation bill. However, the figures are subject to change as negotiations between both chambers of Congress are expected before the current fiscal year expires on September 30, 2023. The Senate is yet to begin its work on the FY24 appropriations bills, and given the anticipated contentious funding season, a continuing resolution with a 1% across-the-board cut and a potential government shutdown in October cannot be ruled out. The ASTHO government affairs team will advocate for increased funding for state and territorial public health departments during this process. Please note that the subcommittee has not released the report text, and a detailed analysis is currently unavailable.
Excerpts from Subcommittee Funding Summary:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The bill includes a total of $7.6 billion for CDC, a cut of $1.6 billion below the enacted level.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): The bill funds SAMHSA at $7.1 billion, a cut of $234 million below the enacted level.
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA): The bill includes $7.3 billion for HRSA, a cut of more than $700 million below the enacted level. (The comparison does not include Community Project Funding included in the FY 2023 enacted bill.)
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ): The bill eliminates funding for AHRQ, a cut of $374 million below the enacted level.
Office of the Secretary—General Departmental Management (GDM): The bill includes $344 million for GDM, a cut of $258 million below the enacted level.
Read the full ASTHO Summary of FY24 House Appropriations Bill HERE. The subcommittee draft Text and Summary are available for review.
📊 Using Data and Effective Messaging to Support Strong Vaccine Policy | Over the past three years, state legislatures have seen a significant number of vaccine-related bills, with over 2,000 considered. While some bills aimed to expand access to routine vaccinations and strengthen immunization systems, others sought to prohibit vaccine requirements and loosen childhood immunization requirements. Despite the pandemic response uniting communities in vaccine distribution, state legislatures are likely to continue addressing vaccine-related issues. Recent legislation in Virginia and West Virginia expanded the scope of practice for healthcare professionals to administer vaccines, improving accessibility. HHS also extended liability immunity for certain healthcare professionals administering COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. As we move forward, leveraging public opinion data, evidence-based policies, and trusted messengers will be crucial in maintaining strong vaccine policies. READ ON
🛠️ Community Toolbox | Tools that may help you in your Public Health work
📅 07/14/2023
📚 Some of this week’s most interesting health related topics to catch up on.
What Health Officials Should Know about Locally Acquired Malaria Cases in Florida and Texas | In late June 2023, five cases of locally transmitted malaria were reported in Florida and Texas, with no evidence of a connection between the two states. All affected individuals have received treatment and are either improving or fully recovered. Active surveillance for additional cases is ongoing in both states, with mosquito surveillance and control measures implemented. The establishment of local transmission in the United States depends on factors such as mosquito availability, climate conditions, and the impact of changing climates on vector populations. READ ON
State Policies Supporting Evidence-Based Therapeutic Psilocybin Use | Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms," has been used in religious and cultural rituals for centuries and is now gaining attention for its potential therapeutic benefits. Research on the therapeutic effects of psilocybin was limited due to its Schedule I classification, but recent studies have shown its positive effects in treating depression, PTSD, and substance use disorder. As interest in psilocybin grows, some states are legalizing and authorizing its therapeutic use, leading to expanded research and access to this promising compound. READ ON
What Needs to Change to Achieve Better Health Equity Metrics | The ASTHO Public Health TechXpo and Futures Forum in Chicago brought together public health leaders and experts to address the challenges and opportunities in the field. The discussions highlighted the importance of addressing health equity and ensuring that advancements in technology and data modernization benefit all populations. The event also shed light on the data gaps in the COVID-19 response, emphasizing the need for complete and accurate demographic information to allocate resources effectively. In a notable presentation, healthcare, technology, and policy experts explored the future of measuring health equity in a rapidly evolving data landscape. READ ON
🛠️ Tools that may help you in your Public Health work.
📅 06/29/2023
📚 Some of this week’s most interesting health related topics to catch up on.
A Territorial Health Agency’s Guide to Sustainable Chronic Disease Programming | Several of The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) staff co-authored a piece in the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice (JPHMP) on how the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) successfully restructured its Non-Communicable Disease Bureau by implementing braided and layered funding strategies and combining funding streams to support coordinated activities. READ ON
Using Boundary Spanning Leadership to Improve Population Health | Engaging sectors beyond public health is crucial for improving population health, requiring leaders to possess boundary-spanning skills to navigate differences in values, regulations, and perspectives. Developing the capacity for boundary-spanning leadership (BSL) can empower the public health workforce to create alignment, commitment, and human-centered relationships in achieving higher goals and visions. BSL is particularly valuable in critical moments like natural disasters or disease outbreaks and aids states/territories in operationalizing equity, leveraging funding, and improving interagency processes. READ ON
Improving Financial Access to Maternal and Infant Care in Rural Areas | Pregnant individuals in rural areas face higher rates of severe maternal morbidity and mortality compared to urban areas due to limited access to obstetric services and a lack of practicing OB-GYNs. These challenges, compounded by lower health insurance coverage and financial constraints, contribute to delays in receiving necessary medical care and higher hospitalization rates, further exacerbating health disparities in rural maternal and infant health. This brief aims to explore the financial obstacles experienced by pregnant individuals in rural areas, while a related blog post focuses on the issue of rural hospital closures. READ ON
🛠️ Tools that may help you in your Public Health work.
🥔 Dr. Tater the Public Health Innovator’s Resource Recommendation.
📅 06/22/2023
📚 Some of this week’s most interesting health related topics to catch up on.
School Ventilation and Air Filtration | A national effort to improve school ventilation systems in response to COVID-19 has led to discussions and guidance at the state level. ASTHO, in collaboration with the EPA, organized focus groups involving representatives from 11 states to address topics such as state-level guidance, ventilation technologies, layered mitigation strategies, partner involvement, and challenges faced by states in providing ventilation guidance to schools. This report offers key considerations for other states seeking to establish their own ventilation and air filtration guidelines. READ ON
The Pillars of Future Public Health Leadership | Leadership is often misunderstood, with many associating it solely with senior positions. However, leadership is a process that anyone can engage in, regardless of their position. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of effective leadership became evident. As we move towards a post-COVID era, public health leadership is crucial, and there are three key pillars to guide us: self-care, effective communication, and a shift from transactions to transformation. Discover how these pillars can shape the future of public health leadership. READ ON
School-Based Strategies are Crucial to Supporting Adolescent Girls’ Mental Health | With a significant rise in emergency department visits for mental health conditions among adolescent girls, factors such as school closures, social media influence, and gender discrimination contribute to the growing crisis. Learn how addressing these challenges and prioritizing school-based mental health systems can lead to better long-term population health outcomes. READ ON
Substance Use During Pregnancy - Reducing Stigma of Treatment | The Public Health Review podcast dives into opioid use disorder during pregnancy and its impact on maternal health and birth outcomes. Discover how Louisiana is tackling the stigma and fears of criminalization surrounding this issue, and learn about the essential role of partnerships in creating a supportive environment for pregnant and postpartum individuals. LISTEN HERE
📅 05/18/2023
📚 Some of this week’s most interesting health related topics to catch up on.
New Healthy People Infographics: Social Determinants of Health Literature Summaries | ODPHP has released 5 new social determinants of health (SDOH) Infographics, covering important topics such as employment, early childhood development, access to health services, healthy dietary patterns, and civic participation. These infographics highlight how social determinants impact health outcomes and represent examples from the 5 domains of SDOH: Economic Stability, Education Access and Quality, Health Care Access and Quality, Neighborhood and Built Environment, and Social and Community Context.
Making the Connection Between Health in All Policies and State Health Improvement Plans | Integrating Health in All Policies (HiAP) into state health improvement plans (SHIP) can create a synergistic approach to advance cross-sector work, improve health, and promote equity. A report showcases seven HiAP strategies that align with state health improvement planning, emphasizing how Wisconsin and Tennessee successfully connected HiAP and SHIPs to enhance health outcomes, address racial equity, improve communication, and incorporate health data in decision-making processes. READ ON
Accessible Community Design to Support Physical Activity and Outdoor Recreation for People of All Ages and Abilities | Physical activity is vital for improving health, mobility, cognitive function, mental well-being, sleep quality, and reducing the risk of falls and serious illnesses. However, many adults with mobility disabilities and older adults remain inactive, especially those with chronic diseases. Enhancing outdoor spaces through community design strategies can create opportunities for people of all abilities to engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity and lead healthier lives. READ ON
Leadership Trailblazer Spotlight: Micky Tripathi, HHS’s Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology | This Q&A with Micky Tripathi emphasizes the importance of data modernization in public health, including the shift to digital foundations, shared information technology infrastructure, interoperability, and the role of the private sector. It also discusses the potential of data modernization in emergency preparedness, the role of health information exchanges (HIEs), and the focus on health and racial equity. READ ON
📅 05/10/2023
📚 Some of this week’s most interesting health related topics to catch up on.
NIEHS highlights link between climate change and worsened health through exposure to higher temperatures, new pests and pathogens, and compromised air and water quality…READ ON
Preventing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is crucial for the well-being of future generations, and collecting timely and reliable data through surveillance systems like BRFSS or state-specific follow-up surveys is essential…READ ON
Rural communities are investing in community health worker programs to address disparities in healthcare services caused by workforce shortages, hospital closures, and geographic barriers.…READ ON
Status-neutral, whole-person care approaches are critical for addressing the growing rates of STIs, especially among marginalized populations, by increasing access to resources, engagement, outreach, and education.…LISTEN NOW
📅 05/03/2023
For the lifelong learners in all of us
May is the month dedicated to raising awareness about asthma. With over 24 million Americans and their families affected by this condition, it is important to share knowledge and learn how to manage asthma and its triggers. READ ON
Eating disorder programs still have weight stigma, despite the fact that focusing on losing weight puts patients at risk. READ ON
U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has issued an advisory regarding the epidemic of loneliness and isolation, which highlights the negative impact it has on the country's overall health. READ ON
📅 04/26/2023
Women’s History Through the Decades | READ ON
Integrating Breastfeeding Into Early Childhood Nutrition Security Programs | READ ON
Advancing Inclusivity Through Local, Diverse Leadership | READ ON
State and Territorial Policies to Strengthen the Public Health and Healthcare Workforce | READ ON
📅 04/19/2023
How Community Health Workers Are Impacting Rural Communities | READ ON
Prioritizing Disability Inclusion in Emergency Planning | READ ON
Supporting Positive Mental Health Through Food Security and Good Nutrition | READ ON
For questions, concerns, or suggestions email Clinton Dela Cruz or Angela Wickham.