Examining Local Public Health Workforce Capacity and Challenges in Addressing Population Health Needs
Description:
Public health personnel in rural areas confront unique challenges working to improve population health and reduce disparities in what are often very remote communities with limited resources. Substantial turnover of local health department (LHD) staff and leadership has occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, causing serious concern about current and future workforce needs and capacity challenges. This nationally focused study will investigate the unique workforce challenges, training needs, and assets that exist among local public health workers in rural vs. urban communities, including the impact of COVID-19 on staff responsibilities, workforce engagement, burnout, resilience, and turnover risk.
Lead Researcher: Davis Patterson, PhD
Contact Info: davisp@uw.edu
Funder:
HRSA: HWRC Allied Health
Status:
In Progress