>>Download the PDF version here.
Strengthening the Public Health Workforce
A strong and resilient public health workforce is key to keeping communities healthy and addressing the nation’s most urgent health challenges. Public health professionals work hard to prevent disease, promote wellness and protect communities.
Investments in education and training can support the public health workforce. Efforts to build a workforce that includes people who are from all backgrounds and who have the skills to tackle health inequalities are helping improve access to health services, share important information, and build trust within communities. We must continue these efforts and more to ensure that public health systems are equipped to meet everyday health needs and respond to crises.
Strengthening the public health workforce starts with...
You
Contacting your members of Congress
Urge your members of Congress to prioritize public health funding in Fiscal Year 2025 before the Subcommittee Markup on June 27 and let them know you want to see funding earmarked for Public Health AmeriCorps and other innovative workforce development models.
Encouraging the next generation through mentorship
Support mentorship programs in schools or community organizations, where students can learn about the impact of public health work. Consider hosting career talks or setting up a job shadowing program. APHA has mentoring and career development resources available for members These efforts can help demystify public health careers, spark interest and build confidence in the next generation of up-and-coming public health professionals.
Communities/Neighborhoods
Supporting policies for a diverse workforce
Advocate for increasing diversity in the public health workforce to ensure it reflects the communities it serves. Support training programs that address implicit bias and build cultural competency, helping public health professionals better understand and meet the unique needs of people of all backgrounds.
Celebrating public health workers
Public Health Thank You Day is observed each November, but public health workers deserve recognition all year long. Organize events, such as appreciation days or award ceremonies, to celebrate public health workers and highlight their contributions. Share their stories, and even simple thank-you messages through social media, newsletters, or local news to raise awareness and build community support.
City/State
Strengthening protections for public health officials
Local government agencies should address threats or incidents targeting public health officials and pursue legal action when appropriate. State and federal agencies can collaborate with local health departments to ensure effective communication during emergencies and provide flexible funding to support community needs, while elected officials can prioritize measures to protect public health workers from violence and threats.
Building leadership pathways
Work with local colleges, universities and training programs to establish clear career pathways for public health professionals. Develop initiatives like internship programs and targeted recruitment campaigns to connect students with public health careers.
Nation
Expanding federal programs
National efforts to strengthen the public health workforce rely on increased funding for vital initiatives. Federal programs, such as those supported by CDC investments, focus on rebuilding and modernizing the workforce to meet current and future challenges. Programs like Public Health AmeriCorps play a significant role in recruiting and training future public health professionals, ensuring they are well-prepared to address the needs of their communities.
Promoting innovation
By embracing technological advancements, we can strengthen the public health workforce and enhance its ability to serve communities. Tools like automated workflows, electronic records and data management platforms can significantly reduce the burden of paperwork and routine processes. Implementing these solutions should be a national priority to ensure a stronger, more effective public health workforce.