Public Health Review
ASTHO’s podcast series, the Public Health Review, features health officials and public health leadership who are on the front lines of state and territorial public health. The series capitalizes on current public health issues and delivers timely, thoughtful perspectives on the value of public health through the lens of state/territorial health officials and other subject matter experts.
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94: Enhancing Brain Health with Data-Driven Solutions
09/16/2024
94: Enhancing Brain Health with Data-Driven Solutions
The Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Data for Action project supports the integration of data on brain health and caregiving into public health planning efforts. State health leaders in the brain health space from Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, and New Jersey participated in the HBI Data for Action initiative as Cohort 1, with support from the Alzheimer’s Association and ASTHO. This episode showcases the inaugural cohort’s accomplishments. Guests Meghan Fadel: Data for Action Lead; Associate Director, Alzheimer’s Association Elizabeth Conklin, MPH: Connecticut Data for Action Participant; Health Program Supervisor; Heart, Brain and Diabetes Health Unit; Chronic Diseases and Injury Prevention Section; Community, Family Health, and Prevention Branch; Connecticut Department of Public Health Resources CDC: Alzheimer’s Association: Alzheimer’s Association: ASTHO: ASTHO: ASTHO:
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93: A Blueprint for Establishing a Health Equity or Minority Health Office
07/30/2024
93: A Blueprint for Establishing a Health Equity or Minority Health Office
There are many considerations when forming and managing an office of health equity or minority health. The National Association of State Offices of Minority Health shares how agencies across the United States have overcome common challenges and benefited from having a dedicated health equity office. In addition, the United States Virgin Islands Department of Health discusses initial successes and challenges experienced while establishing their office. Finally, the California Department of Public Health, with a well-established office of health equity, shares how their office utilized health equity liaisons and supported rural/tribal communities. This podcast episode complements the recently published ASTHOReport “Establishing an Office of Health Equity or Minority Health,” which examines different approaches to sustainability. Guests · Rohan Radhakrishna, MD, MPH, MS, Deputy Director and Chief Equity Officer, California Department of Public Health · Justa Encarnacion, RN, MBA, HCM, Health Commissioner and Chief Public Health Officer, United States Virgin Islands Department of Health · Veronica Halloway, Executive Director, National Association of State Offices of Minority Health Resources · · · · · ·
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92: Investing in Community Health Workers Is Vital to Population Health
07/26/2024
92: Investing in Community Health Workers Is Vital to Population Health
Community health workers (CHWs) are frontline, public health professionals who share life experience, compassion, and cultural and value alignment with the communities they serve. They work in a range of settings under different titles, but what makes them unique is their ability to build deep trust with the people they serve based on their lived experience. Despite robust evidence demonstrating the value of CHWs, sustainability of CHW positions and funding remains a perpetual challenge. In this episode, two industry experts with direct state public health experience discuss why it is so critical to invest in the CHW workforce as part of a health equity strategy, and share resources available to help recruit, retain, and sustain the workforce. Guests: · Joneigh Khaldun, MD, MPH, FACEP: Chief Health Equity Officer, CVS Health, alum–MI · Sherri Ohly: Co-Director, Development, Envision Resources: · ASTHO: · Center for Community Health Alignment: · Community-Based Workforce Alliance: · CVS Health: o ASTHO-CVS Health: o · Envision: o o o o o CHW Sustainability Summit Journal ( or ) · National Association of Community Health Workers: o o · Northern Arizona University, Center for Health Equity Research: Community Health Representative Integration Tools for and ·
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91: Improving Public Health by Modernizing Data Exchange
07/22/2024
91: Improving Public Health by Modernizing Data Exchange
The landscape of public health data is changing. This episode dives into the importance of modernizing data exchange for a more efficient and effective public health system. We explore a framework that utilizes cloud services, open-source software, and open data standards to revolutionize how public health data is collected, shared, and analyzed. This innovative approach outlines tools to reduce manual effort and streamline data flow across various sources, ultimately empowering state, tribal, local, and territorial health agencies (STLTs) to improve public health outcomes. Join us as we hear national and state perspectives on data modernization initiatives, including valuable insights, experiences, and recommendations on workforce, policy, and funding to prepare for a future of cloud-based data sharing. This episode is a must-listen for public health professionals looking to harness the power of modern technologies to improve public health data exchange and ultimately, the well-being of their communities. Speakers: · Rachelle Boulton, MSPH: Health Informatics Program Manager, Division of Population Health, Utah Department of Health and Human Services · Tabatha Offutt-Powell, DrPH, MPH: Vice President, Public Health Data Modernization and Informatics, Association of State and Territorial Health Officials Resources: · The framework is one way CDC has been talking about improving data exchange and leveraging cloud technologies. The themes and tools described as part of North Star Architecture are also connected to other opportunities and initiatives at CDC and with public health partners. We expect this to continue to evolve. · provides a comprehensive overview of national efforts to modernize public health data collection, sharing, and analysis. · details a comprehensive strategy and goal-oriented plan for leveraging data to improve public health outcomes across the nation. · is a CDC and United States Digital Service (USDS) initiative co-piloted with the Virginia Department of Health that led to the creation of a prototype cloud-based data processing pipeline that validates, ingests, and links data across multiple data streams. · (TEFCA) outlines a national vision for public health data and the data, technology, policy, and administrative actions essential to exchange core data efficiently and securely across healthcare and public health. · (DEX) is a cloud-based service that streamlines data exchange between STLTs and CDC through a centralized entry point, accepts data in various formats from public health partners, and utilizes modern Application Programming Interface (APIs) for secure and efficient data exchange. · CDC is working closely with partners through a number of initiatives to . This page covers several of these with access to additional resources and information.
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90: Latest Food Code Benefits Connecticut, Tribal Nations
07/10/2024
90: Latest Food Code Benefits Connecticut, Tribal Nations
Summary: The FDA Food Code provides an evidence-based set of best practices for retail food safety that can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses from retail food establishments. It offers a wide array of benefits that can help establish uniformity in retail food across the country, but some jurisdictions may face challenges in adopting it. There are different ways to adopt the Food Code, showcased in this podcast episode, with examples from Connecticut and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. Speakers: · Manisha Juthani, MD: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health · Cynthia Costa: Supervisor, Food Protection Program, Environmental Health Drinking Water Branch/Environmental Health Section, Connecticut Department of Public Health · Maryam Hosseini, RS/REHS: Environmental Health Manager, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Resources: · · · · · · ·
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89: Using Business Process Improvement to Address Procurement Challenges in Guam
06/05/2024
89: Using Business Process Improvement to Address Procurement Challenges in Guam
The Government of Guam (GovGuam)— along with many other states, territories, and freely associated states — s challenges with procurement, which were illuminated by the COVID-19 pandemic response. To improve their small purchase procurement process, GovGuam invested time and resources into business process improvement (BPI), from the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS), the Office of the Governor of Guam, and other government agencies to inform decisions. Learn about the benefits and challenges of their efforts, and listen to their hopes for the future. Guests · Arthur San Agustin: Special Assistant of Health to the Governor of Guam, Former Director of Guam DPHSS, ASTHO Alum · Bertha Taijeron: Program Coordinator, Guam DPHSS · Jon Junior Calvo: Chief of Staff, Office of the Governor of Guam Resources assists in establishing and maintaining a centralized grants management office to optimize the use of federal funding. provides high quality resources, tools, and model practices that modernize and strengthen administrative and organizational capacity. Business process improvement efforts in the U.S. Virgin Islands offer insight into improving federal grants management: focus on leveraging boundaries to benefit a group or an entire organization. details GovGuam’s Boundary Spanning efforts.
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88: Maximizing Investments in Social Determinants of Health Through Interagency Collaboration
04/16/2024
88: Maximizing Investments in Social Determinants of Health Through Interagency Collaboration
The social determinants of health (SDOH)—the social, economic, and built environments in which people live, learn, work, and play—have significant impacts on health outcomes. Yet, sustainably funding initiatives that address SDOH is an ongoing challenge. I Guests: Admiral Rachel Levine, MD: Assistant Secretary for Health, HHS Elizabeth Hertel: Director, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Danielle Nelson: Senior Program Analyst, Federal Transit Administration Resources:
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87: With Deep Appreciation - Mike Fraser’s ASTHO Legacy
02/28/2024
87: With Deep Appreciation - Mike Fraser’s ASTHO Legacy
In 2016, Mike Fraser joined ASTHO as CEO. Throughout the seven subsequent years, he served as an indispensable leader, visionary, mentor, and friend—steering the organization through unprecedented challenges in public health, including the global COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the time has come to bid Mike a bittersweet farewell. In this episode of Public Health Review, we speak with Mike about his profound legacy, celebrate ASTHO’s extraordinary achievements under his tenure, and wish him well in his new position as CEO at the College of American Pathologists.
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86: One Health - The Shared Future of People, Animals, and the Planet
11/09/2023
86: One Health - The Shared Future of People, Animals, and the Planet
The One Health approach recognizes the interconnection between human and animal health and their shared environment. There is an urgent need for a One Health approach now, especially in the prevention of outbreaks, not just response. Public health agencies and the animal agriculture industry play crucial roles in One Health, along with other stakeholders. In this episode, our guests tell us how they put One Health into practice in a state health department, how health departments can connect across agencies to address One Health issues, and what falls under the One Health umbrella. Guests Dr. Karen Smith, MD, MPH: Founding Partner, Healthy Community Partners, Inc J.J. Jones: Executive Director of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture Dr. Megin Nichols DVM, MPH, DACVPM: Deputy Division Director, Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, CDC Resources ASTHO ASTHO ASTHO CDC CDC
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85: The Call to Join Public Health
10/12/2023
85: The Call to Join Public Health
Public health has a workforce problem: the demand for a new generation of public health practitioners is higher than ever, but health agencies are having a hard time filling positions, either due to funding or lack of visibility. Luckily, there are solutions to bridge fresh graduates to public health careers. In this episode of Public Health Review, Dr. JP Leider from the University of Minnesota and Dr. Heather Krasna of Columbia University spoke with ASTHO about solutions to recruit new public health professionals and the partnerships forming around that endeavor. Guests: JP Leider, PhD: Director, Center for Public Health Systems, University of Minnesota School of Public Health Heather Krasna, PhD: Associate Dean, Career and Professional Development, Columbia University School of Public Health Resources:
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84: Partnering to Prevent Overdoses
09/18/2023
84: Partnering to Prevent Overdoses
Successful overdose prevention efforts require support from public health, public safety, and community harm reduction programs. These partnerships are key to promoting sustainable and effective overdose prevention. On this episode of Public Health Review, we speak with representatives from each of these fields to discuss their perspectives, experiences, and the importance of maintaining strong relationships while also negotiating differing strategies and approaches: Brandon del Pozo, a former police officer and current assistant professor of medicine and public health at Brown University; Joy Rucker of 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. Guests: Brandon del Pozo, PhD: Assistant Professor of Medicine and Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University Joy Rucker: National Harm Reduction Consultant, JR Harm Reduction Consulting Cathy Slemp, MD, MPH (alumni-WV): Co-Founder and Vice Chair, West Virginia Hope in Action Alliance Resources:
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83: Cutting-Edge Program Boosts Public Health Leadership Skills
08/28/2023
83: Cutting-Edge Program Boosts Public Health Leadership Skills
ASTHO’s Essentials of Leadership and Management (ELM) training gives public health experts the skills they need to better perform their supervisory positions and support their teams. On this episode, we check in with ELM graduates in Kentucky: Shannon Rome at the Franklin County Health Department, and Elizabeth Anderson-Hoagland with the Kentucky Department of Public Health. They share how the program has improved their work and helped them grow as leaders. We also hear from ASTHO’s Avia Mason about ELM, its impact on public health practitioners, and how programs like ELM can improve organizational culture and workplace wellbeing. Guests: Shannan Rome, Health Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS) Manager, Franklin County Health Department Elizabeth Anderson-Hoagland, Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Kentucky Department of Public Health Division of Prevention and Quality Improvement Avia Mason, Vice President of Leadership and Organizational Performance, ASTHO
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82: Data Strategies to Improve Health Outcomes for Indigenous Communities
06/21/2023
82: Data Strategies to Improve Health Outcomes for Indigenous Communities
American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations experience profound health disparities in part due to significant social and economic barriers. Having solid data helps inform policies that can improve the systems that serve these populations and mitigate stigmas impacting the health of AI/AN mothers and infants. Centering community voices can produce more effective and equitable healthcare, reducing the disparities impacting AI/AN communities. In this episode, three experts—Ed Ehlinger (alumni-MN), a previous past president of ASTHO; Janelle Palacios, a nurse midwife and researcher; and Katelyn Strasser, administrator of the Office of Child and Family Services with the South Dakota Department of Health—discuss the Federal Advisory Committee on Infant and Maternal Mortality’s most recent report on AI/AN health outcomes and the data-focused recommendations for states and territories. Guests: · Edward P. Ehlinger, MD, MSP: former Minnesota Health Commissioner and past president of ASTHO · Janelle Palacios, PhD: Salish & Kootenai, originally from the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana; Nurse Midwife, Researcher, and Storyteller · Katelyn Strasser, MPH: Administrator of the Office of Child and Family Services, South Dakota Department of Health Resources: · · ASTHO thanks the CDC for its support of this episode of Public Health Review.
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81: Improving Access to Risk Appropriate Care and Maternal Health Outcomes through Provider Engagement
05/18/2023
81: Improving Access to Risk Appropriate Care and Maternal Health Outcomes through Provider Engagement
Maternal mortality rates are disproportionally high in the United States and still increasing. The majority of maternal deaths are preventable, indicating the need for system improvements. Equitable access to risk appropriate care improves maternal health outcomes and can be achieved by engaging providers in the process of developing and implementing risk appropriate care strategies at a state systems level. In this episode, two maternal healthcare veterans share approaches for bringing providers into the process, as well as how state health officials can promote risk appropriate care strategies and address challenges in achieving equitable risk appropriate care. Show Notes Guests · Eugene C. Toy, MD, FACOG, FABFM, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical Director of ACOG Texas Levels of Maternal Care Verification Program · Lily Lou (alumni-AK), MD, FAAP, Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Resources · · · ·
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80: Reducing STI Stigma Through Inclusive Care Strategies
04/20/2023
80: Reducing STI Stigma Through Inclusive Care Strategies
STIs are on the rise. Now more than ever, it is imperative to raise awareness of the current state of STIs, especially their disproportionate impact on marginalized populations. Whole person care and status-neutral approaches to STI treatment and prevention empower people to access resources and services, as well as increase engagement, outreach, and education, all of which are key components of these care models. Hear from Leandro Mena of CDC and Thomas Dobbs (alumni-MS) on the benefits of these approaches. Guests Leandro Mena, MD, MPH, Director of the Division of STD Prevention (DSTDP) in National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), CDC Thomas Dobbs, MD, Dean of the John D. Bower School of Population Health at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and ASTHO Alumni Resources · · · ·
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Bridging the Gap: Ensuring Vaccine Equity for Native Communities
03/30/2023
Bridging the Gap: Ensuring Vaccine Equity for Native Communities
Like other vulnerable populations, American Indian and Alaskan Native (AI/AN) communities faced greater risk for complications during the COVID-19 pandemic. One such complication was ensuring that AI/AN populations had access to the vaccine. Listen to three public health experts share how they prioritized vaccine equity for AI/AN communities on the local, state, and national levels during the pandemic. Guests Anne Zink, MD, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer for Alaska Department of Health, ASTHO President Gary Lankford, Program Director for the Advances in Indian Health Care, Association of American Indian Physicians Johnny Delgado, Project Director, Bakersfield American Indian Health Project Resources
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Connecting Climate Change and Health Equity in Public Health Agencies
02/07/2023
Connecting Climate Change and Health Equity in Public Health Agencies
This podcast focuses on the Washington State Department of Health’s (WA DOH) approach to understanding and addressing climate and equity concerns. Guests discuss the need to continuously make connections between climate change and public health, the role of community engagement and partnerships in advancing these efforts, the use of existing networks to reach at-risk populations, and how to stay grounded in the public health messaging on climate change. WA DOH discusses some of its recent initiatives for engaging environmental justice communities, shares its approach for training and coordinating resiliency planning, and highlights ways the department raises awareness of the climate’s impact on health. Resources: • • • ASTHOReport: Guests: Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, Secretary of Health, Washington State Department of Health Rad Cunningham, MPH, MPA, Senior Epidemiologist, Washington State Department of Health
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77: Celebrating 80 Years of ASTHO
12/20/2022
77: Celebrating 80 Years of ASTHO
The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials was incorporated on March 23, 1942. For 80 years, ASTHO has worked to advance public health and create a healthier nation. What has that looked like in the past, and we where are we going in the years ahead? Join ASTHO’s leadership panel—including CEO Mike Fraser, President Anne Zink, Past President Nirav Shah, and Idaho Commissioner of Health Elke Shaw-Tulloch - for a discussion on the unique role ASTHO plays in the public health landscape, and how we can seize historic investments in health to create a more equitable future. Guests Mike Fraser, PhD, MS, CAE, FCPP, ASTHO CEO Anne Zink, MD, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health Nirav Shah, MD, JD, ASTHO Past President, Director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention Elke Shaw-Tulloch, MHS, Public Health Administrator, Idaho Department of Health & Welfare Resources
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76: The Future of Food Safety Inspections
12/01/2022
76: The Future of Food Safety Inspections
Public health agencies had to rapidly innovate during COVID-19, and one of those innovations was virtual restaurant inspections. Beginning in March 2020, COVID-19 social distancing and stay-at-home orders required many food establishments to adopt takeout and/or food delivery models. To ensure that establishments were abiding by food safety rules and to protect the health of professionals who inspect these facilities, some state health agencies implemented virtual inspection protocols. This podcast showcases how one state health department pivoted during the pandemic and how they are continuing to use this innovation now and in the future. Guests Edward Simmer, MD, MPH, DFAPA, Agency Director, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Susan Best, Program Manager, Division of Food and Lead Risk Assessment, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Resources ASTHOBrief: South Carolina Resource: ASTHOBrief: South Carolina Resource:
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75: Ebola Preparedness - Lessons Learned from 2014
11/17/2022
75: Ebola Preparedness - Lessons Learned from 2014
As Ebola cases grow in Uganda, state and island area health officials are preparing for the possibility of a case in the United States. While there are no U.S. cases currently, there was an outbreak of Ebola in Dallas in 2014 when Dr. David Lakey was Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services. He joins this episode of Public Health Review to discuss his experience managing the outbreak and what lessons and advice he has as health officials prepare for potential cases of Ebola in the United States. Guests: David Lakey, MD, Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs and Chief Medical Officer, The University of Texas System, Alumni-TX Resources:
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74: Helping the Helpers Address Youth Mental Health
10/11/2022
74: Helping the Helpers Address Youth Mental Health
Building a comprehensive workforce response to the youth mental health crisis requires educators, traditional school behavioral health workers, and public health professionals to work collaboratively. A public health approach is needed to address youth mental health by supporting frontline staff through a “helping the helpers” model. Public health and education sectors can work in tandem to train frontline school staff and create systems of support for staff well-being. This episode highlights strategies for addressing youth mental health through the workforce and promising state practices for cross-sector collaborations. Guests: Sharon Hoover, PhD, Co-Director, National Center for School Mental Health Director, NCTSN Center for Safe Supportive Schools, University of Maryland School of Medicine Allison Budzinski, MSW, CAPSW, Trauma and Resilience Coordinator Wisconsin Department of Health Services Jessica Frain, MSW, School Mental Health Consultant, Student Services/Prevention and Wellness, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Resources:
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73: Improving Health Equity with Data
09/19/2022
73: Improving Health Equity with Data
Health equity is a top priority for many health agencies. In an ideal implementation, public health leaders can use performance management systems to advance health equity goals. These systems ensure that progress is being made toward department goals by systematically collecting and monitoring data to track results and identify opportunities for improvement. Our latest episode highlights how the current equity efforts can integrate with established performance management practices. It also discusses how health agencies can use planning documents to integrate equity in health assessments, health improvement plans, strategic plans, and performance management systems. Guests: Nicole Alexander Scott, MD, Former Director, Rhode Island Department of Health Harry Chen, MD, Former Commissioner, Vermont Department for Health Anna Bradley, MS, CHES, State Health Improvement Coordinator, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Resources: CDC Webpage: ASTHOReport Health Equity Metrics (coming soon to astho.org)
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72: Revitalizing Public Health Through Connection
08/31/2022
72: Revitalizing Public Health Through Connection
The Senior Leader Reserve Corps connects former government public health leaders with current state health officials in need of leadership-level technical assistance and support. ASTHO developed this program with CDC to support state health officials as they face their biggest professional challenges. In this episode, Dr. Greg Holzman (alum-MT), Paula Tran (SHO-WI), and Meredith Alexander (ASTHO) discuss this innovative program and highlight the work that Paula and Greg have done in Wisconsin to strengthen the statewide public health infrastructure. To request support for your health agency, or for more information on volunteering with the Senior Leader Reserve Corps, please reach out to the Performance Excellence team, at . Guests Greg Holzman: Alum-Montana, SLRC Member Paula Tran: SHO-WI Meredith Alexander: Senior Analyst, Performance Excellence and Engagement, ASTHO Resources
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71: Substance Use During Pregnancy - Reducing Stigma of Treatment
07/27/2022
71: Substance Use During Pregnancy - Reducing Stigma of Treatment
Opioid use disorder (OUD) during pregnancy contributes to maternal death and poor birth outcomes. Although prenatal care can reduce these effects, pregnant individuals may delay care due to concerns about stereotyping and stigmatizing by providers. The relationship between a physician and their patient may also be strained by mandated reporting of substance use to law enforcement or social services, and related fears of parent-child separation and criminalization. Such fears may present additional barriers to receiving prenatal care. In this episode, Dr. Joseph Kanter, the current state health official of Louisiana, and Dr. Amy Ladley, Program Manager for the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative, discuss Louisiana’s approach to reducing stigma and fears of criminalization around opioid use in pregnant and postpartum individuals. They also highlight the importance of partnerships in these efforts. Resources:
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70: Making Sure Maine Youth Matter
06/30/2022
70: Making Sure Maine Youth Matter
Since 2000, rates of suicide and substance overdose mortality have steadily increased in the United States. A prevailing theory within public health is that substance use disorder and suicide are both “deaths of despair” and a way to cope with socioeconomic infrastructure challenges, such as poverty, lack of social connection, housing instability, and discrimination—issues which have only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a method of preventing suicide and substance use disorder, states turn to addressing upstream factors like creating healthy communities where individuals feel they matter. In this podcast episode, Sheila Nelson, a program manager for adolescent health and injury prevention at the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and Kini-Ana Tinkham, the executive director of the Maine Resilience Building Network, discuss how they are working in their communities to set youth up to thrive. Using behavioral health data from the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS), they are collaborating on a Cultivating Mattering for Maine Youth Initiative where they build resilience, incorporate youth voices, and support communities in their suicide and substance use prevention efforts. Guests: Sheila Nelson, Program Manager, Adolescent Health and Injury Prevention, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention Kini-Ana Tinkham, Executive Director, Maine Resilience Building Network Resources:
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69: Effects of COVID-19 on Tuberculosis Prevention, Detection, and Treatment
05/12/2022
69: Effects of COVID-19 on Tuberculosis Prevention, Detection, and Treatment
COVID-19 has impacted the ways in which we prevent, detect, and treat tuberculosis (TB) infections. The pandemic presented challenges to public health and healthcare systems which may have caused delayed diagnoses, and increased new infections, however some COVID-19 mitigation measures may have positively impacted TB disease burden. What do the data tell us? What can public health do to improve TB prevention and treatment efforts? In this episode, Dr. José Romero (SHO-AR) and Dr. Philip LoBue (Director of the Division of Tuberculosis Elimination at CDC) discuss the current state of TB, and the challenges and areas of opportunity posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. LoBue also shares information about the latest CDC TB Campaign: Think. Test. Treat TB, which aims to raise awareness for TB among patients, providers, and partners.
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68: Older Adults and Healthy Aging
04/21/2022
68: Older Adults and Healthy Aging
Older-adult health has been increasingly on the radar of public health agencies over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. For many, it prompted new or enhanced partnerships with their sibling agencies. As the population of older adults continues to grow, it is crucial for public health agencies to join partners in the aging network to create systems that support healthy aging. In this podcast episode, Jewel Mullen (alumni-CT) offers perspectives on the value of cultivating partnerships between state public health agencies and state units on aging. In addition, Elizabeth Head (Deputy Director, Injury Prevention Section, Georgia Department of Public Health) and Aline Stone (Georgia Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Coordinator, Division of Aging Services, Georgia Department of Human Services) describe their collaboration to improve the health of older adults in Georgia. They share their experience participating in a pilot project with ASTHO and Trust for America’s Health to cross reference their state health improvement and aging plans. Guests Jewel Mullen, Former Public Health Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health Elizabeth Head, Deputy Director, Injury Prevention Section, Georgia Department of Public Health Aline Stone, Georgia Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Coordinator, Division of Aging Services, Georgia Department of Human Services Resources
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67: Public Health's Role in Telehealth
04/06/2022
67: Public Health's Role in Telehealth
The expansion of federal and state telehealth flexibilities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic policy restrictions and improved access to telehealth for millions of people, although for certain under resourced populations. As telehealth continues to take off, there are questions around how public health agencies are engaging in telehealth activities. Each public health department operates differently and offers a varying perspective on how they implement and support telehealth to increase access to care for communities. In this podcast episode, Scott Harris (SHO-AL) and Mei Kwong (executive director, Center for Connected Health Policy) explore the current state of telehealth during COVID-19 and how it’s being used as a tool to access care, spotlighting examples from public health. Guests: Scott Harris, MD, MPH, State Health Officer, Alabama Department of Public Health Mei Kwong, JD, Executive Director, Center for Connected Health Policy Resources:
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66: COVID-19 in the Pacific: What We’ve Learned and Where We’re Going
03/23/2022
66: COVID-19 in the Pacific: What We’ve Learned and Where We’re Going
Public health agencies work around the clock to prepare for and respond to public health threats, including infectious diseases, natural disasters, clinical care emergencies, and more. While advanced preparedness planning is invaluable, past and current emergencies also serve as critical learning opportunities to inform future public health responses. In this episode, Haley Cash (Pacific Island Health Officers Association) and Secretary Jack Niedenthal (Republic of the Marshall Islands) share insights into the unique strategies and successes of COVID-19 responses in the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands. How have these jurisdictions—with unique needs and oftentimes limited supplies—managed to protect their populations over the last two years? Our experts dive into key lessons and share broader takeaways for future public health crises. Resources: ASTHO JPHMP Article: ASTHO Newscast Clip: ASTHO Blog:
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65: Collectively Supporting Behavioral Health of People Living with Disabilities During COVID
02/16/2022
65: Collectively Supporting Behavioral Health of People Living with Disabilities During COVID
Adults with disabilities are reported to than those without disabilities. Mental distress in this population is associated with poorer health behaviors, an increase in health services use, mental and behavioral health disorders, and reduced quality of life. In particular, the pandemic has spotlighted a need for improved healthcare delivery systems and public health response strategies as COVID-19 has in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In this podcast episode, Alison Beam (alumni-PA) and Kristin Ahrens (deputy secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Health) offer cross-agency perspectives on the challenges and experiences they faced addressing the complex needs of people with IDD during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also share strategies to leverage state Medicaid data to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on the health of people with IDD, along with how cross-agency data-sharing can provide a more comprehensive look at statewide trends and inform decision-making in current and future pandemic response efforts. Guests: Alison Beam, Former Secretary of Health, Pennsylvania Department of Health Kristin Ahrens, Deputy Secretary, Office of Developmental Programs, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Resources: (ASTHO)
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