Public Health Review

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. Behind the Scenes: What it Takes to do COVID Testing Public Health Review Morning Edition

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 One Health Case Studies  ASTHO One Health Webinars  ASTHO Responding to Emerging Food Safety Threats Policy Statement  CDC Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases  CDC One Health Office  National Institute for Animal Agriculture Public Health Review Morning Edition

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: Public Health Careers Consortium for Workforce Research in Public Health

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: https://www.astho.org/globalassets/brief/od2a-public-health-public-safety-partnerships.pdf

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

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: ·       Making Amends: Recommended Strategies and Actions to Improve the Health and Safety of American Indian and Alaska Native Mothers and Infants ·       Strengthening Risk-Appropriate Care in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities ASTHO thanks the CDC for its support of this episode of Public Health Review.

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 ·       Risk Appropriate Care Stakeholder Convenings ·       Strengthening Risk-Appropriate Care in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities ·       CDC Levels of Care Assessment ToolSM (CDC LOCATeSM) ·       Levels of Maternal Care (ACOG)

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 ·       Innovative STD Prevention and Treatment Strategies Microlearnings ·       Blog on the rise of STIs ·       ASTHO and NCSD Joint Statement on Rise of Syphilis in the U.S. ·       Sexually Transmitted Infections: Strategies for Your State

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   New ASTHO Program Aims to Increase Equity in Adult Immunization  Partnering with Community Action Agencies Can Improve Trust in Vaccines  Public Health and Healthcare Partner to Promote Influenza Vaccination  10 KEY ACTIONS to Improve Immunization Uptake and Advance Health Equity: Community Engagement 

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: • WA DOH Climate and Health Web Page • WA State Environmental Justice Task Force Final Report • ASTHOReport: Climate Change and Environmental Justice: A Snapshot of Jurisdiction Activities 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

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 About Us | ASTHO Anne Zink, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Alaska Department of Health, Announced as ASTHO's 80th President Thanking Our Public Health Workforce

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: Virtual Food Safety Inspections During the COVID-19 Pandemic South Carolina Resource: DHEC COVID-19 Virtual Food Safety Check ASTHOBrief: Environmental Health Innovations During the COVID-19 Pandemic South Carolina Resource: Food Safety & COVID-19

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: ASTHO Podcast: Lessons From the Trenches: Leading During a Public Health Crisis CDC Webpage: Ebola (Ebola Virus Disease)

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: Improving School Workforce Capacity to Address Youth Mental Health ASTHO Report: Improving Youth Behavioral Health Through School Based Strategies NCSMH Advancing Comprehensive School Mental Health Systems: Guidance from the Field Resilient Wisconsin Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction School Mental Health  

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: Data Visualization for Performance Improvement Learning Series Rhode Island Health Equity Measures Montana State Health Improvement Plan CDC Webpage: Paving the Road to Health Equity ASTHOReport Health Equity Metrics (coming soon to astho.org)

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 pe@astho.org.  Guests Greg Holzman: Alum-Montana, SLRC Member Paula Tran: SHO-WI Meredith Alexander: Senior Analyst, Performance Excellence and Engagement, ASTHO Resources Senior Leader Reserve Corps Wisconsin Department of Health Services      

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: Stigma Reinforces Barriers to Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Women with Substance Use Disorder Supporting Pregnant and Postpartum Women with Opioid Use Disorder: An Infographic Series Opioid Use Disorder Toolkit: Supporting the Public Health Response in Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health

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: Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey Maine Resilience Building Network

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. MMWR: Tuberculosis — United States, 2021 CDC Webpage: Tuberculosis Data and Statistics CDC Communications Campaign: Think. Test. Treat TB

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 Age-Friendly Public Health Systems - Trust for America's Health (afphs.org) Healthy Aging and Brain Health | ASTHO ASTHO Learning: Integrating Healthy Aging into Public Health ASTHO Learning: Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Road Map Module

The expansion of federal and state telehealth flexibilities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic loosened policy restrictions and improved access to telehealth for millions of people, although challenges remain 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: State, Federal Policies Increase Virtual Access to Behavioral Health Care States Leverage Telehealth to Respond to COVID-19 What's Next for Telehealth: States Try to Make COVID-19 Telehealth Options Permanent Telehealth: An Opportunity for State and Territorial Health Agencies to Improve Access to Needed Health Services

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: USAPI COVID-19 Response Hub ASTHO JPHMP Article: US-Affiliated Pacific Islands Response to COVID-19: Keys to Success and Important Lessons ASTHO Newscast Clip: Fighting COVID-19 in the Pacific ASTHO Blog: Reflections From the Field: Pacific and Atlantic Jurisdictions Remain Resolute Amid Adversity

Adults with disabilities are reported to experience more mental distress 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 exacerbated health disparities 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: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - The Mental Health of People with Disabilities Cross-Agency Partnerships for Health Equity: Understanding Opportunities Across Medicaid and Public Health Agencies (ASTHO) How COVID-19 impacts people with disabilities Embedded: When Disaster Strikes for People Living With Disabilities (ASTHO) Embedded: One Year Review of Disability and Preparedness Specialists Project

As Omicron leads to nation-wide COVID-19 surges, many jurisdictions face the decision to activate crisis standards of care, a decision-making guide that helps healthcare providers give the best care during situations where resources are scarce. These guidelines focus on care for groups of people rather than individuals and are steered by ethical principles to avoid discrimination. Crisis standards of care can be especially impactful for people living with disabilities who may require access to certain resources, such as ventilators, as part of their routine medical care. In this episode, Katey Redmond (former Disability and Preparedness Specialist, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services) and Dr. Alexis Travis (State Health Officer, Michigan Department of Health & Human Services) speak about disability inclusion in crisis standards of care and share advice on how to build partnerships with the disability community. Guests Alexis Travis, PhD, State Health Officer, Michigan Department of Health & Human Services Katey Redmond, MPH, CPH, Public Health Specialist II, Former Alaska Disability and Preparedness Specialist Resources ASTHO Experts Infographic: 10 Essential Questions on Disability Inclusion (Available in English and Spanish) ASTHO Experts Blog: Embedded: One Year Review of Disability and Preparedness Specialists ASTHO Experts Video: Partnerships with Disability Organizations ASTHO Experts Podcast: Protecting the Vulnerable: How Public Health Can Better Serve People with Disabilities

Public Health leaders know that location matters and has a significant impact on an individual's health—and initiatives that have the highest impact focus on localized conditions and speak directly to community needs. Nicole Alexander-Scott (director, Rhode Island Department of Health) and Katie Lamansky (health program manager, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare) discuss why place-based interventions are a key strategy for health agencies to advance health equity. We examine the Health Equity Zone model and share what states can borrow from it to reimagine how they engage with communities.    Guests Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH, Director, Rhode Island Department of Health Katie Lamansky, CHES, Health Program Manager, Get Healthy Idaho, Office of Policy, Performance and Strategy, Division of Public Health, Idaho Department of Health & Welfare Resources Episode Transcript Health Equity Zones: A Toolkit for Building Healthy and Resilient Communities Rhode Island's Health Equity Zones: Addressing Local Problems with Local Solutions A Framework for Public Health Action: The Health Impact Pyramid ASTHO Challenge: Building Healthy and Resilient Communities ASTHO Place-Based ECHO

A strong public health infrastructure is required at the national, state, territorial, and local levels to carry out critical programs and respond to emergencies. How can states move from a reactive approach of ad hoc crisis funding to a proactive investment in nimble, cross-cutting systems? How are states that are undergoing public health transformations positioned to leverage new funding for core priorities like data modernization? In our latest episode, Dr. Steven Stack (Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health) and Janet Hamilton (Executive Director, CSTE) share the latest insights from the field. They address short and long-term needs that public health departments must consider as they create the next generation of public health infrastructure—from laboratories to workforce development, to community partnerships, data systems, administrative readiness, and more. Together, building this infrastructure can be the rising tide that lifts all services across the public health system. Guests: Steven Stack, MD, Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health Janet Hamilton, MPH, Executive Director, Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists Resources: Episode Transcript Foundational Public Health Services Framework The 10 Essential Public Health Services ASTHO – Accreditation and Performance Management Technical Assistance and Resources ASTHO – Guide on Conducting an Administrative Policy Assessment and Gap Analysis ASTHO – COVID-19 Highlights Critical Need for Public Health Data Modernization to Remain a Priority ASTHO –Exploring Innovations in GIS and Visualization for Healthier Communities ASTHO - Public Health Infrastructure Proposals Gain Steam in Congress ASTHO - Understanding the Impacts of COVID-19 on the Workforce

This episode highlights COVID-19's impact on overdose-related deaths during the postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester. There has been a significant increase in postpartum overdose-related deaths in recent years—a problem that has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.   In this episode, Dr. Kristina Box (Indiana state health commissioner) discusses the topic from a state-level perspective. Dr. Mishka Terplan (medical director, Friends Research Institute) then shares an overview of the stigma this population faces, and what can be done to improve health outcomes for people with substance use disorder during the postpartum period.   Guests:   Kristina Box, MD, FACOG, Indiana State Health Commissioner  Mishka Terplan, MD, MPH, FACOG, DFASAM, Friends Research Institute Resources:  Preventing Fatal Overdoses in Postpartum Populations Postpartum Depression: Expanding Screening Practices to Improve Outcomes Stigma Reinforces Barriers to Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Women with Substance Use Disorder  

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought challenges to communities nationwide, but there is reason for hope: In the face of these struggles, health agencies are seeing real progress that will provide benefits long after the pandemic passes. In our latest episode, Anne Zink (Chief Medical Officer, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services) and Larry Lewis (licensed psychologist and executive coach) speak on the importance of celebrating “small wins”—tangible stories of progress that can sustain the public health workforce in an otherwise trying time. Listen in to hear what these wins look like and learn how leaders can apply this motivational practice in their own daily work. Speakers: Anne Zink, MD, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health Larry Lewis, PhD, Licensed Psychologist and Independent Executive Coach Resources: Resiliency Guide: The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services CDC: Practicing Gratitude Works

As states continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of crisis communications is vital. How can states provide the public with relevant, timely information? What are the essential elements of a crisis communications response?    In our latest episode, Umair Shah (Director, Washington State Department of Health) and Khalilah LeGrand (Director of Communications, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services) share the latest insights from the field. Hear them discuss lessons learned during the pandemic, strategies public health communications departments can use to connect audiences with resources, and best practices of media relations. Guests: Umair Shah, MD, MPH, Secretary of Health, Washington State Department of Health Khalilah LeGrand, EdD, Director of Communications, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Resources: Washington Department of Health COVID-19 Resources Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Resources CDC Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) Training and Resources

On this episode, we dissect concerns at the southwest United States border, where health and governmental officials find themselves managing an extraordinarily complex situation, handling an increase in migration activity during a global pandemic. Pritesh Gandhi, MD, Chief Medical Officer, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Erica Pan, MD, State Epidemiologist and Deputy Director, Center for Infectious Diseases at the California Department of Public Health, share how community-based partnerships are vital to managing an issue with both public health and national security implications. Our speakers discuss how leaders at all levels of government ultimately lean on partners at the local level to carry out their missions and what that looks like at the border right now. Guests: Erica Pan, MD, MPH, FAAP, California State Epidemiologist and Deputy Director, Center for Infectious Diseases at the California Department of Public Health Pritesh Gandhi, MD, MPH, Chief Medical Officer, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Resources: Official California COVID-19 Dashboard Department of Homeland Security Profile: Pritesh Gandhi

As the COVID-19 vaccination campaign continues, countering misinformation has become a core public health goal. What approaches are showing promise, and who can public health agencies bring to the table to advance clear and accurate information about vaccines? In this episode, Nirav D. Shah, MD, JD, ASTHO President and Director, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and Joe Smyser, PhD, CEO, The Public Good Projects, share the latest insights from the field. Tune in to hear about Maine CDC's social media strategy, learn about existing expertise health agencies can leverage to counter misinformation, and stay up to date with challenges at the intersection of traditional media, social media, and health information. Speakers: Nirav D. Shah, MD, JD, ASTHO President and Director, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention Joe Smyser, PhD, CEO, The Public Good Projects Resources: Maine CDC's #VaccineAnswersforMe video campaign The Public Good Projects Project VCTR First Draft News Stanford Internet Observatory

With the pandemic upending social interaction, youth mental health is an increasingly important issue. State and territorial health agencies and community partners play a role in advancing prevention at the intersection of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)s, overdose, and suicide--strengthening equity in these efforts by addressing root causes and shared risk and protective factors. Today's guests discuss why understanding the intersection of suicide, overdose, and ACEs is critical to helping individuals live happy and healthy lives. It also focuses on the importance of connecting community needs, implementing awareness campaigns, and addressing stigma to reduce health disparities. Show Notes: Rachael Banks, Oregon Health Authority in the Division of Public Health, Director Jessica Kroeker, Trauma Matters Omaha, Initiative Coordinator Resources: Maternal and Child Health Public Health Nurse Home Visiting Programs (Oregon Health Authority) Maternal and Child Health Title V Block Grant (Oregon Health Authority) Climate Change and Public Health (Oregon Health Authority) Healthier Together Oregon Trauma Matters Omaha Trauma-Informed Interviewing with Project Harmony Project Harmony The Kim Foundation

In this bonus episode, we hear from three leading state public health officials about the latest national and state response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their comments are taken from a virtual news conference with national journalists held Thursday, July 29, 2021. During the event hosted by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO), Dr. Nirav Shah (Maine), Dr. Karyl Rattay (Delaware), and Dr. Joseph Kanter (Louisiana), discuss the latest issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic – mask guidance, back to school issues, and the surging Delta variant. Listen to the full briefing here. Speakers: Nirav Shah, MD, JD, Director, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and ASTHO President. Karyl Rattay, MD, MS, Director, Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health Joseph Kanter, MD, MPH, State Health Officer, Louisiana Department of Health

Medicaid plays a critical role in providing access to health services for low-income U.S. citizens in the five U.S. territories. However, Medicaid financing in the territories has been underfunded when compared to states. While Congress has provided a patchwork of short-term, enhanced funding solutions through recent appropriation bills, they are set to expire at the end of September, which could trigger a “Medicaid cliff” and result in drastic cuts to territorial Medicaid programs. Today's guests discuss the urgent need for a permanent Medicaid solution, drawing attention on the need for equitable health financing for the U.S territories. This funding is necessary to support comprehensive public health and healthcare within these jurisdictions that includes expanded prevention, testing, and treatment programs and capabilities.   Speakers: Karl Ensign, MPP, Vice President, Territorial Support, Association of State and Territorial Health Officials   Justa Encarnacion, RN, BSN, MBA,  Commissioner of Health, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health Jorge Galva, JD, MHA, Executive Director, Puerto Rico Health Insurance Administration Resources: Permanent, Sustainable Medicaid Financing for U.S. Territories Policy Statement (ASTHO) Medicaid Financing for the Territories (Congressional Research Service) Medicaid and CHIP in the Territories (Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission)

The COVID-19 pandemic was an important lesson for public health officials that their surveillance needs can evolve and change quickly - from ramping up testing, to building up a contact tracing workforce, to creating a database for vaccinations. On this bonus episode, Jim Ivey, chief operating officer at Chexout - a company that helps public health organizations digitize their clinics and operations - discusses the importance of interoperability. Ivey makes the case that public health organizations need to invest in software that will adapt to their changing needs in both ongoing disease outbreaks and emerging infections, adding a robust, up-to-date data dashboard can make the difference between an economy closing down or staying open.

Forensic pathologists investigate deaths to serve the living, but what are the implications for public health when we do not have a viable forensic pathology workforce? State medicolegal death investigation systems currently lack a capacity to respond to major public health crises, and the surge of overdose deaths over the past decade have only exacerbated this workforce shortage. Today's guests discuss the critical need to find new recruits in forensic pathology and urge state health officials to consider reforms that could help bring reinforcement to a vital yet often neglected profession with a huge impact on public health.  Guests: Tracie Collins, MD, MPH, Secretary, New Mexico Department of Health Kurt Nolte, MD, Professor of Pathology and Radiology, University of New Mexico, Former Chief Medical Investigator for the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Resources: Forensic Pathologist Shortages: Context and Considerations for State Public Health Agencies (ASTHO) Increasing the Number, Retention, and Quality of Board-Certified Forensic Pathologists (The National Institute of Standards and Technology) Reclaiming the Autopsy as the Practice of Medicine (National Association of Medical Examiners) Needs Assessment of Forensic Laboratories and Medical Examiner/Coroner Offices (The National Institute of Justice)

The idea of “vaccine passports” is starting to become a divisive issue, but the reality is many businesses likely will begin to require patrons to show some kind of proof of vaccination against COVID-19. The good news is businesses and governments have options for how they might want to implement this requirement. On this bonus episode of Public Health Review, Kevin Richardson, Outside Counsel on Global Government Affairs for Zebra Technologies Corporation, discusses how a business or government can create vaccine credentials that are more sophisticated than CDC's paper cards, but also protect a holder's personal information. Richardson explains digital vaccine credential options, outlines their security features, and considers the policy outcomes for entities looking to confirm that people are protected against COVID-19.

Vaccines that protect against COVID-19 are now readily available for most Americans. Almost half of the adult population is fully inoculated. This is a huge step in the right direction in order to put COVID-19 behind us. However, there remains a significant number of people who are vaccine hesitant - enough to possibly prevent the United States from reaching herd immunity. On this bonus episode we talk with Jens Dakin, Managing Director of Information Operations and Strategic Communications with AM Trace, to discuss how to best to communicate to these populations.  AM Trace is currently working with a handful of states to create community-specific messaging for vaccine hesitant people, and Dakin discusses what they’ve learned in this process so far.

People living with disabilities have borne disproportionate burden in past emergency situations due to inequities in preparedness and response. To address and prevent inequities in the COVID-19 response, ASTHO placed 14 disability and preparedness specialists into health agencies around the country to promote inclusivity of people living with disabilities. On today’s episode, we explore how two of these disability and preparedness specialists have worked to address the needs of people living with disabilities in their jurisdictions. Our experts share their drive for this work and what their states are doing to promote equity for people living with disabilities. Speakers: Sara Hart Weir, MS, Special Advisor, Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services Kara Nett Hinkley, MPP; Special Advisor for COVID-19, Louisiana Department of Health Joseph Kanter, MD, MPH, State Health Officer, Louisiana Department of Health Resources Examining the Americans with Disabilities Act in Emergency Responses (ASTHO) Website Accessibility: Enhancing Access to COVID-19 Vaccine Registration and Beyond (ASTHO) Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day in Missouri (PSA Video) (Missouri) White House Call: Vaccinating People with Disabilities (White House) Vaccine Eligibility for People with Disabilities and their Providers (Louisiana)

As public health leaders race to vaccinate the nation against COVID-19, it’s critically important for public health data to move faster than disease. On this bonus episode of Public Health Review, we chat with an expert in artificial intelligence who knows how to leverage data in the fight against disease. Stanley Campbell, CEO and CTO of EagleForce, discusses its proprietary telehealth platform (“myVax™”) and how the company has developed a platform for a digital passport for COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination results. He also explains how a centralized database for all personal health information--yes, even to track vaccinations-- can help us transition into a post-pandemic world.

This conversation was first published in May 2020, but we thought the lessons and takeaways are still very relevant as the nation finally begins to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. May is Mental Health Month, and this year, health officials are tasked with navigating the impact of COVID-19 on the behavioral health system. The rates of depression, suicide, and substance use are expected to surge as communities continue to struggle with COVID-19 cases — along with the fear, isolation and unemployment that comes with the pandemic. It’s essential that policymakers ensure that communities have continued access to mental health and substance use disorder services not only during, but also in the aftermath of this pandemic. During this episode, public health leaders discuss gearing up for a surge of mental health needs, and strategies states could take to mitigate the impacts. Experts also discuss why it is especially critical to examine the behavioral health infrastructure for rural communities and the impact of historical trauma exacerbated by the pandemic.   Guests: Joe Parks, MD, Medical Director and Vice President of Practice improvement, National Council for Behavioral Health Saul Levin, MD, MPA, Chief Executive Officer and Medical Director, American Psychiatric Association; Former Director, District of Columbia Health Department Anne Zink, MD, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services Resources: COVID-19 Economic Impact on Behavioral Health Organizations (National Council for Behavioral Health) The COVID-19 Impact on our Mental Health System (ASTHO) COVID-19 Information Hub (APA)

COVID-19 has not only stressed the U.S. healthcare and public health systems, but also highlighted racial and ethnic disparities in pre-existing conditions and health outcomes. These inequities are in part the result of differential access to quality and affordable healthcare, including access to health insurance. And individuals in rural and underserved areas face additional barriers to care, including limited access to healthcare providers, insufficient high-speed broadband connectivity, and less access to critical care because of high rates of rural hospital closures. In this episode, our guests discuss how health officials can serve as chief health strategists to work across sectors and ensure that all people have access to the services and resources that allow them to be well. This episode also details how states and territories can transform service delivery, ensure equitable access to prevention and healthcare services, and ultimately build stronger, more resilient communities. Guests: • Esther Muña, CEO, Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands • The Honorable Lance Robertson, Director, Healthcare Practice, Guidehouse Resource: • ASTHO Bounce Forward Resources: https://astho.org/COVID-19/Bounce-Forward/

People with chronic diseases have suffered the most during the pandemic both in rates of COVID-19 mortality and morbidity, and in how they experience the social determinants of health (things like food insecurity, poverty, etc.) The health disparities that exist in those with chronic disease and poor social determinants of health are stark, and the pandemic clearly demonstrates the link between health equity and the social determinants of health. On today’s episode, we speak to chronic disease experts and public health leaders on how to address this growing divide. Our guests discuss how public health can reduce disparities in communities of color and rural parts of the country where rates of chronic disease are highest--often by starting with the social determinants of health and putting racial equity at the forefront. Guests: Karen Hacker, MD, MPH, Director of CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion M. Norman Oliver, MD, MA, State Health Commissioner, Virginia Department of Health Susan Kansagra, MD, MBA, Board President, National Association of Chronic Disease Directors and Section Chief of the Chronic Disease and Injury Section, Division of Public Health Resources: National Association of Chronic Disease Directors' Board President Challenge (NACDD) Equity as a Pillar in Our Vaccine Rollout (ASTHO) An Ounce of Prevention Is Still Worth a Pound of Cure, Especially in the Time of COVID-19 (CDC) Health and Economic Costs of Chronic Diseases (CDC) Health Equity (CDC NCCDPHP) Social Determinants of Health (CDC NCCDPHP) ASTHO Challenge: Building Healthy and Resilient Communities

One of the many lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic is the needed investment in a robust public health workforce that can respond to crises when they arise. Yet, a well-funded public health workforce isn’t enough--there also needs to be a fundamental commitment to health equity. Unfortunately, years of disinvestment in governmental public health led to a system that wasn’t as prepared as it could have been for a pandemic, and COVID-19 demonstrated disproportionate impacts across racial and ethnic groups. It is critical now more than ever to have a strong public health workforce that can address evolving challenges and needs, and build confidence in public health in communities disproportionately disenfranchised and negatively impacted by COVID-19. The experts on this episode make the case for how a robust public health workforce could have changed the trajectory of our pandemic response, but also explain why we should reimagine what a strong public health workforce requires as we enter into pandemic recovery. Guests:  Joneigh S. Khaldun, MD, MPH, Chief Medical Executive, State of Michigan and Chief Deputy Director for Health, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Lauren R. Powell, MPA, PhD, Vice President, US Health Equity and Community Wellness, Takeda Resources: National Consortium for Public Health Workforce Development (de Beaumont Foundation) Profile of State and Territorial Public Health (ASTHO) Public Health Workforce Development (CDC)

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected children’s and families’ social, emotional, and mental wellbeing, and demand for social services has increased due to COVID-19-related and economic factors. Programs that place foster children, prevent domestic violence, and provide temporary assistance to families experiencing job loss – among other human services programs – are as important now as they have ever been. However, these services may have shifted from in-person visits to digital operations, eligibility requirements may have shifted, and states may soon be facing budget cuts affecting the delivery of safety net programs. The speakers on this episode explain how states can build relationships with the human and social services sector and ensure that children and families can access critical social supports during and after this period of increased need. This episode also leverages new resources and flexibilities created during the COVID-19 response to rebuild systems to be community-centered, prevention-focused, and equitable. Speakers: Elke Shaw-Tulloch, MHS, Public Health Administrator, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Suzy Sonnier, Vice President Strategy and Development, ‎UnitedHealthcare Resources: Building a More Equitable Economy Post-Pandemic (ASTHO) COVID-19 Parental Resources Kit (CDC) COVID-19 Makes Funding For Health And Social Services Integration Even More Crucial (Health Affairs) Flattening The Next COVID-19 Curve – Our Essential Resources (Health Leads)

As COVID-19 spread across the country, public health officials became key spokespeople for simple prevention measures such as hand washing, mask-wearing, and social distancing. However, these actions were met with resistance from those who felt their individual freedoms and liberties were being challenged. Misinformation and conspiracy theories led to beliefs that the virus was a hoax and prevention measures were unnecessary. Efforts to limit public health authority resulted in reduced confidence from the public and an inability for public health officials to lead. Our experts on this podcast episode explore what public health officials can do to build back public confidence in our public health infrastructure and offer lessons that work. Our experts will discuss how and why this has happened, and how we can remedy this as we enter into COVID-19 recovery and the largest vaccination campaign in decades. Guests: Ngozi Ezike, MD, Director, Illinois Department of Public Health David Sundwall, MD, Executive Director of the Utah Department of Health from 2005-2011 and ASTHO President, 2007-2008 Resources: Lessons Learned from the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands COVID-19 Response (ASTHO) David N. Sundwall: Restoring confidence in public health. It’s a crisis of trust. (The Salt Lake Tribune) Illinois Health Director Talks Building Trust In Black Areas Ahead Of COVID-19 Vaccine Event. (St. Louis Public Radio) Trust in Public Health Is Essential Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic (Journal of Hospital Medicine) Register for ASTHO’s COVID-19 TechXpo using this link

It’s been a long and draining year in the year since the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the United States. But help is on the way with two FDA-authorized vaccines, and more likely to get approved in the months to come. Now begins the challenge of getting Americans vaccinated from the virus that has killed more than 400,000 Americans and sickened even more. Our guests today discuss where we are now in the rollout, what we can expect in the weeks to come, and making sure that the vaccines are distributed equitably in populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Our experts on this episode also discuss that while there have been perceived challenges in the initial rollout, the overall effort of getting vaccines into the arms of a virus that barely existed one year ago is nothing short of miraculous. Speakers: Claire Hannan, MPH Executive director, Association of Immunization Managers Thomas Dobbs, MD, MPH State health officer, Mississippi State Department of Health Resources: COVID-19 Resource Library (Association of Immunization Managers) ASTHO’s COVID-19 Resource Page COVID-19 vaccine information page (CDC)

In medical schools and public health programs across the country, 2020 will be worth its own textbook chapter in the years to come. But today we’re still in the thick of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic, though there is light at the end of the tunnel with the end of the year and an impending vaccine. On this episode, we ask public health experts to zoom out a bit and reflect on a truly remarkable year. These public health leaders discuss the politicization of public health mitigation efforts, becoming the target of hateful attacks, and being at the forefront of the biggest health crisis in a century. Our experts also reflect on what they hope people have learned about our public health infrastructure and lessons learned for future disease outbreaks.  Guests: Rachel Levine, MD, Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Health, and President, ASTHO Tom Frieden, MD, MPH, President and CEO, Resolve to Save Lives, and former Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2009-2017 Resources: COVID-19 resource page (ASTHO) COVID-19: Simple Answers to Top Questions (ASTHO) About Resolve to Save Lives  

Economic insecurity has been on the rise in the U.S. as COVID-19 continues to spread across the country. Millions of Americans have filed for unemployment while others risk losing their income because of illness or businesses closing temporarily. The pandemic is also exacerbating the housing crisis with many facing evictions and foreclosures. There have been numerous efforts at the national and state level to address these issues. This episode highlights ongoing efforts and provides consideration for health officials to not only limit the impact of the pandemic on the economic security and housing needs of Americans but also to rebuild systems that create a healthier, more equitable post-COVID-19 world. This podcast is the first in a series that challenges state/territorial health officials to “Bounce Forward” instead of simply bouncing back to the way things were before. Guests: Karyl Thomas Rattay (MD, MS), Director, Delaware Division of Public Health Nan Roman, President and CEO, National Alliance to End Homelessness Denise Harlow, CEO, National Community Action Partnerships Resources: Delaware Hones in on Medical-Legal Partnerships to Reduce Infant Mortality (National Institute for Children’s Health Quality) Framework for an Equitable COVID-19 Homelessness Response (National Alliance to End Homelessness) Healthy Communities Delaware How States are Housing the Homeless During a Pandemic (ASTHO) State of Homelessness: 2020 Edition (National Alliance to End Homelessness)

If there’s one major lesson we can learn from the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s the stark structural inequities among communities of color and low-income families. Though public health and human services organizations have similar goals to close these gaps, there are lots of opportunities to improve collaboration in order to eliminate some of the root causes of disparities across the country. However, that is beginning to change as investments in prevention-based work continue to get buy-in from policymakers.  ASTHO and the American Public Human Services Association (APHSA) are now in partnership to support the transformation of the child welfare system through a prevention first model. In this episode, ASTHO’s CEO Michael Fraser, along with ASPHSA’s CEO Tracy Wareing Evans, discuss the intersection of public health and human services and why it’s so important for these two sectors to work together to achieve a shared vision of thriving families.  Guests:  Michael Fraser, PhD, CEO, ASTHO Tracy Wareing Evans, President, CEO, APHSA Resources: Creating a 21st Century Legacy Toward Thriving Families (ASTHO and APHSA) Policy and Practice Magazine (APHSA) Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) (CDC)

Cyanotoxins can be a major summertime public health concern for freshwater bodies. The rapid growth of blue-green algae in these waters can be harmful to humans and animals, particularly children, and it is difficult to decide if an algal bloom is toxic just by looking at it. Officials from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) had to handle this the hard way when there was an outbreak of cyanotoxins found in the drinking water supply of the state’s capital city, Salem, in 2018. This podcast will focus on lessons learned from the OHA’s cyanotoxin education and outreach efforts, and how a water contamination emergency caused by cyanotoxins can quickly become a public information emergency. Three guests from OHA will share how they used science-based health messaging as part of their risk communication strategy, and how important partnerships are in tackling cyanotoxins. In addition, OHA staff will discuss tools on the horizon to help conduct surveillance for cyanotoxins and prepare for future events. Speakers: Curtis Cude, Environmental Public Health Surveillance Program Manager, Environmental Public Health, Oregon Health Authority Kari Salis, Drinking Water Services Technical Services Unit Manager, Oregon Health Authority Lillian Shirley, Public Health Director, Oregon Health Authority Resources: Risk Communication of Waterborne Contaminants- HAB Case Studies (ASTHO and ECOS) Communicating the Risks of Harmful Algal Blooms: Case Studies from State Health and Environmental Agencies(webinar)(ASTHO) State of Water Preparedness: A 2018 Scan of Water Preparedness and Response Infrastructure in State and Territorial Health Agencies (ASTHO) State and Territorial Preparedness for Drinking Water Emergencies (ASTHO) Harmful Algal Bloom-Associated Illness (CDC) Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms in Water Bodies (EPA)