This month, Heluna Health was pleased to attend NACCHO 360, the largest convening of local health department leaders and public health professionals in the United States. The conference was a wonderful opportunity for attendees to learn, network, and share experiences and best practices, especially as the public health sector continues to navigate federal landscape challenges.
During the conference, Heluna Health President and CEO, Dr. Blayne Cutler, joined public health experts Brian Castrucci, CEO of de Beaumont Foundation, Aaron Alford, Senior Director at NACCHO, and Dr. Richard Pan, former CA State Senator and Public Health Champion, for an insightful, inspiring keynote panel exploring strategies for the public health sector amidst the current uncertainty surrounding federal funding.
In her remarks, Dr. Cutler highlighted communications as an important tool for the public health sector. “Those of us who love data can sometimes get lost in the numbers,” she said. “But we need to remember who we’re sharing this information with and understand their frame of reference, so that they not only internalize the data, but are inspired to take action.”
Dr. Cutler shared, “Our work is not only to gather the data and publish peer reviewed articles, but perhaps, even more importantly, to partner effectively with our communications colleagues to highlight how the work we do irrefutably saves lives.” These sentiments speak to the bigger picture that Cutler addressed during the panel discussion: reframing the perception of public health.
Especially now, as our sector continues to face unprecedented threats, funding cuts, workforce reductions, and rising demand for our services, it is important to recognize that public health is not just a privilege; it is a necessity. Dr. Cutler shared, “Public Health is public safety. It is essential to the wellbeing of our communities, and it’s crucial that we continue working toward shifting the public’s perspective.”
Heluna Health representatives were also present in the Exhibit Hall throughout the conference, connecting with attendees often about the difficulties currently being faced by many public health workers. But one thing continued to ring true: despite the challenges, everyone in the sector remains committed to making an impact and enhancing the wellbeing of the communities they serve.
Special thanks to all who attended the panel discussion and who visited us in the Exhibit Hall. Click here to learn more about our work, and how we can support you in maximizing your impact.
Featured image photo credit: NACCHO 360
