The Evolving Role of Public Health
Public health professionals are uniquely positioned to change the course of health care and save lives across the country
By Elahe Nezami, Ph.D.
Illustration by Mark Harris
L
ife expectancy is declining in the U.S., which continues to perform worse than other wealthy nations in diabetes management and the prevention of heart attack mortalities.
These are stark indicators that, despite our advanced medical infrastructure, health outcomes for the U.S. population do not reflect the resources we invest. While health care costs continue to escalate, the health of average Americans is falling behind the global curve. But the science and art of public health can play a pivotal role in correcting this trajectory.
The demand for public health professionals was undeniable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their skills and expertise were instrumental in saving countless lives. Beyond crisis response measures, these multidisciplinary providers brought national attention to the systemic changes needed to both improve the health of our population and manage the staggering toll of the pandemic on our health care system.
With the COVID-19 health crisis in our rearview mirror, the role of public health workers is evolving.
Public health professionals can serve and thrive in many different settings, including state and local health departments, hospitals, health clinics, educational institutions and laboratories.
Public health professionals include:
- Doctors, researchers and nurses, many of whom use innovation to advance health care protocols, practices and communication with the public
- Health educators who teach communities how to promote quality of life for residents and families
- Scientists and epidemiologists tracking disease sources
- Nutritionists, who develop healthy eating recommendations
- Nurses administering care in clinics and in patients’ homes
- Scientists, engineers and technicians who ensure the safety and sanitation of the food and water supply
- Health commissioners upholding policies to protect and advance community health and safety
These educators, advocates and practitioners are creating local and national support systems for a healthier population, as well as paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for health care. By applying the principles of public health across all sectors, disciplines and communities, these professionals can begin to reverse the current trends and improve health care access and outcomes.
It’s their responsibility to serve as leaders, using their expertise and experience to reshape the health of our nation.
Learn more about the new Online M.P.H. Program at the Miller School. 
