Westfield Health Bulletin: National Public Health Week gave us the opportunity to reflect
This year's 30th anniversary of National Public Health Week wraps up today. It gives organizations the opportunity to look at the progress we have made over three decades as well as chart a path forward during these uncertain times. Similar to New Year's resolutions, it is a time to look at lessons learned and face emerging challenges.
National Public Health Week was first recognized in 1995. Its mission is to bring together federal, state and local public health agencies with private organizations and educational institutions to increase understanding of the role of public health in protecting and improving the health of individuals and communities. The first year theme was 'Public Health Is You, Too.'
Activities were available through out the week focusing on each persons role in protecting their own health, their family and their community.
The next era of public health will focus on road blocks of climate change and misinformation with science, collaboration, communication and advocacy to build health resilient communities.
Thirty years later, the American Public Health Association is stepping forward with a theme similar to 1995. Public Health is each of us making a difference in our homes and communities.
It's about how where we work, live and play affect our well being. Multiple topics were highlighted each day this week:
It Starts Here: Your Health is Our Mission
Climate Action Starts Here: Championing Resilience for Health
Health Equity Stats Here: Optimizing Health for All
Advocacy Starts Here: Amplifying Voices for Public Health
The Future of Public Health Starts Here: Strengthening the Public Health Workforce
Each area is explained with suggestions for individuals, city/state and national levels. More information is available at nphw.org. The site also has facts, ways to get involved, tools and tips, and events.
The American Public Health Association with other organizations is responsible for the education and activities of NPHW. Interestingly, APHA, founded in 1872, is the oldest and largest professional health association in the United States.
APHA advocates for the health of communities, strengthens public health professions and drives science-based public health policies. They publish the American Journal of Public Health.
Their message this year includes suggestions to volunteer for local organizations and participate in community events, walks and fundraisers for health related programs. Get to know your neighbors — strong neighborhoods lead to stronger communities. Support local farms and farmers' markets. Use and support local parks, green spaces and community gathering areas. Stay informed about our climate by a free online training provided called Climate for Health Ambassadors Training. Connect with your local and state public health and support policies for health, speak up for health, support leaders that advance health for all.
Urge your members of Congress to prioritize public health funding. Support programs to mentor the next generation and teach them the impact of public health work.
Annually, National Public Health Week hopes to unite communities, recognize health contributions and address key health issues with the motto, we are all stronger and healthier together. Public health is 'an invisible force that protects our safety and well being.'
Take care of yourself and someone else.
Juanita Carnes is a nurse practitioner with 39 years of experience in a hospital emergency department and urgent care facilities. She served 30 years on the Board of Health in Westfield, Massachusetts.
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