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Wang B, Wang C, Hanks AS. Where are they and how do they perform? Measuring long-term career outcomes of public health doctoral recipients. J Public Health (Oxf) 2024:fdae031. [PMID: 38494676 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdae031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Doctoral recipients of public health play pivotal roles in the support and leadership of the public health industry and academic research. We conducted this study to assess and track the long-term career outcomes of public health PhDs (PHPhD). METHODS We linked data from the Survey of Doctorate Recipients to the Survey of Earned Doctorates and tracked the long-term career outcomes and job placements of PHPhD from 2001 to 2017. Logistic regression and ordinary least squares regression models were used to model career outcomes and behavioral characteristics. RESULTS PHPhD specializing in biometrics and biostatistics had the highest annual income. In all, 59.5% of PHPhD chose academia to likely continue research activities. However, 11.1% of PHPhD shifted job sectors from academia to industry or government 10 years postgraduation. Persistent disparities across racial and gender groups were observed in job outcomes such as salary, working hours and job satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS These results provide instructive insights PHPhD can use for long-term career planning. Public health program administrators, employers and stakeholders may use the results to address labor outcome disparities in race and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- School of Finance, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250010, China
- National Institute of Health Data Science of China, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250010, China
| | - Andrew S Hanks
- Department of Human Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
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Resnick BA, Mui PC, Maiorana R. It Can't Just Be About the Money: How to Assure an Adequate Public Health Workforce. Am J Public Health 2024; 114:264-266. [PMID: 38271653 PMCID: PMC10882382 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2023.307563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Beth A Resnick
- Beth A. Resnick and Paulani C. Mui are with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD. Ruth Maiorana is with the Maryland Association of County Health Officers (MACHO), Baltimore
| | - Paulani C Mui
- Beth A. Resnick and Paulani C. Mui are with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD. Ruth Maiorana is with the Maryland Association of County Health Officers (MACHO), Baltimore
| | - Ruth Maiorana
- Beth A. Resnick and Paulani C. Mui are with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD. Ruth Maiorana is with the Maryland Association of County Health Officers (MACHO), Baltimore
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Krasna H, Venkataraman M, Patino I. Salary Disparities in Public Health Occupations: Analysis of Federal Data, 2021‒2022. Am J Public Health 2024; 114:329-339. [PMID: 38271651 PMCID: PMC10882389 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2023.307512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Objectives. To assess salary differences between workers within key public health occupations in local or state government and workers in the same occupations in the private sector. Methods. We used the US Department of Labor's Occupational Employment and Wage Survey (OEWS). Referencing previous studies matching Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes with health department occupations, we selected 44 SOC codes. We contrasted median salaries in OEWS for workers in each occupation within state or local government with workers in the same occupations outside government. Results. Thirty of 44 occupations paid at least 5% less in government than the private sector, with 10 occupations, primarily in management, computer, and scientific or research occupations paying between 20% and 46.9% less in government. Inspection and compliance roles, technicians, and certain clinicians had disparities of 10% to 19%. Six occupations, primarily in social work or counseling, paid 24% to 38.7% more in government. Conclusions. To develop a sustainable public health workforce, health departments must consider adjusting their salaries if possible, market their strong benefits or public service mission, or use creative recruitment incentives such as student loan repayment programs for hard-to-fill roles. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(3):329-339. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307512).
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Krasna
- Heather Krasna, Malvika Venkataraman, and Isabella Patino are with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Malvika Venkataraman
- Heather Krasna, Malvika Venkataraman, and Isabella Patino are with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Isabella Patino
- Heather Krasna, Malvika Venkataraman, and Isabella Patino are with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
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Horney JA, Harjivan A, Stone KW, Jagger MA, Kintziger KW. Threats to public health workers. PUBLIC HEALTH IN PRACTICE 2023; 6:100435. [PMID: 37867581 PMCID: PMC10587718 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2023.100435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Media reports and data from public health professional membership organizations have demonstrated high levels of harassment experienced by public health workers throughout the COVID-19 response. We documented personal and political threats to public health workers across the first 12 months of pandemic response through a longitudinal survey completed in Fall 2020 and Summer 2021. The web-based survey was distributed to respondents using the Qualtrics survey platform. Survey items measured domains including demographic information, public health roles and training, mental and physical health, and work-life balance. Respondents were also asked if they had received any personal or political threats, from whom these threats were received, and completed an open-ended question describing the nature of the threats. Among the 85 public health workers completing both surveys, threats from members of the public and from elected and appointed leaders were most prevalent at both timepoints; however, as the pandemic response progressed, the nature of threats to public health workers changed. While those remaining in the public health workforce may be more resilient to these threats, increased prevalence of personal and political threats has the potential to deter new graduates from entering the field, impacting the public health system's future response capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Horney
- University of Delaware, 100 Discovery Blvd, Room 731, Newark, DE, 19713, USA
| | - Akash Harjivan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Kahler W. Stone
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, 37132, USA
| | | | - Kristina W. Kintziger
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural & Occupational Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
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Krasna H, Kulik PKG, Karnik H, Leider JP. Recruiting New Talent for Public Health Jobs With Evidence-Based Job Descriptions and Attractive Job Postings. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2023; 29:E162-E168. [PMID: 37382439 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT With $7.4 billion from the American Rescue Plan funding new hires in the public health workforce, health departments could benefit from well-written, accurate job descriptions and job postings/advertisements to attract candidates. PROGRAM We wrote accurate job descriptions for 24 jobs common in governmental public health settings. IMPLEMENTATION We searched the gray literature for existing templates of job descriptions, job task analyses, lists of competencies, or bodies of knowledge; synthesized several currently posted job descriptions per occupation; utilized the 2014 National Board of Public Health Examiners' job task analysis data; and gathered feedback from current public health professionals in each field. We then engaged a marketing specialist to change the job descriptions into advertisements. DISCUSSION Several occupations examined did not have available job task analyses, while others had multiple. This project appears to be the first time that a list of existing job task analyses have been compiled together. Health departments have a special opportunity to replenish their workforce. Having evidence-based and vetted job descriptions that can be tailored for specific health departments' usage will accelerate their recruitment efforts and attract more qualified candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Krasna
- Dept. of Health Policy & Management, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, New York (Dr Krasna); Region V Public Health Training Center, Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan (Ms Kulik); and Center for Public Health Systems, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (Dr Leider and Dr Karnik)
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Leider JP, Castrucci BC, Robins M, Hare Bork R, Fraser MR, Savoia E, Piltch-Loeb R, Koh HK. The Exodus Of State And Local Public Health Employees: Separations Started Before And Continued Throughout COVID-19. Health Aff (Millwood) 2023; 42:338-348. [PMID: 36877909 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.01251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the size and composition of the state and local governmental public health workforce in the United States is critical for promoting and protecting the health of the public. Using pandemic-era data from the Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey fielded in 2017 and 2021, this study compared intent to leave or retire in 2017 with actual separations through 2021 among state and local public health agency staff. We also examined how employee age, region, and intent to leave correlated with separations and considered the effect on the workforce if trends were to continue. In our analytic sample, nearly half of all employees in state and local public health agencies left between 2017 and 2021, a proportion that rose to three-quarters for those ages thirty-five and younger or with shorter tenures. If separation trends continue, by 2025 this would represent more than 100,000 staff leaving their organizations, or as much as half of the governmental public health workforce in total. Given the likelihood of increasing outbreaks and future global pandemics, strategies to improve recruitment and retention must be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michael R Fraser
- Michael R. Fraser, Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, Arlington, Virginia
| | - Elena Savoia
- Elena Savoia, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
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Chokshi DA. Building the Future of Public Health Around People. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2023; 29:S7-S8. [PMID: 36448748 PMCID: PMC10578510 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dave A. Chokshi
- CUNY School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York and Department of Population Health and Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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Juliano C, Schaffer K, Gambatese M. Recovery and Resiliency in 29 Big Cities: Results From the 2021 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2023; 29:S22-S34. [PMID: 36223507 PMCID: PMC10573090 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Big Cities Health Coalition member health departments (BCHC HDs) serve more than 61 million people across their jurisdictions, nearly 20% of the US population. As such, they have particular challenges and opportunities in how they do their work. This article focuses on BCHC HDs that participated in the 2021 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey (PH WINS) and describes workplace perceptions, training needs, COVID-19 efforts, and well-being. OBJECTIVE To describe key characteristics of the governmental public health workforce among BCHC HDs, including demographics, perceptions, and needs. DESIGN Using a subsample of data from the 2021 PH WINS that included 29 BCHC HDs, descriptive statistics on many of the topics covered by the 2021 PH WINS were analyzed and compared with the 2017 PH WINS. SETTING Twenty-nine BCHC HDs in cities across the United States. PARTICIPANTS In total, 7922 of 29 661 staff members (response rate of 27%) from participating BCHC HDs. RESULTS Most BCHC HD respondents self-identified as a woman (76%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 75%-77%), and as Black, Indigenous, and people of color (69%, 95% CI: 68%-70%), similar to findings from the 2017 PH WINS (75%, 95% CI: 74%-76%; 67%, 95% CI: 66%-69%, respectively). Most respondents believe that their organization prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (70%, 95% CI: 69%-72%). Thirty percent (95% CI: 29%-32%) intend to leave their organizations within 1 year, and 18% (95% CI: 17%-19%) plan to retire within 5 years. Staff connect their work with agency goals and priorities (86%, 95% CI: 85%-87%) and are determined to give their best effort every day (91%, 95% CI: 90%-91%). CONCLUSION As the need for an all-encompassing focus on COVID-19 lessons, BCHC HDs should continue to focus on prioritizing staff retention, enhancing communication between senior staff and employees, and fostering an environment where innovation and creativity are rewarded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrissie Juliano
- Big Cities Health Coalition (BCHC), Bethesda, Maryland (Mss Juliano and Schaffer); de Beaumont Foundation, Bethesda, Maryland (Mss Juliano and Schaffer); and Gambatese Consulting, Wappingers Falls, New York (Ms Melissa Gambatese)
| | - Kay Schaffer
- Big Cities Health Coalition (BCHC), Bethesda, Maryland (Mss Juliano and Schaffer); de Beaumont Foundation, Bethesda, Maryland (Mss Juliano and Schaffer); and Gambatese Consulting, Wappingers Falls, New York (Ms Melissa Gambatese)
| | - Melissa Gambatese
- Big Cities Health Coalition (BCHC), Bethesda, Maryland (Mss Juliano and Schaffer); de Beaumont Foundation, Bethesda, Maryland (Mss Juliano and Schaffer); and Gambatese Consulting, Wappingers Falls, New York (Ms Melissa Gambatese)
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Balio CP, Galler N, Meit M, Hale N, Beatty KE. Rising to Meet the Moment: What Does the Public Health Workforce Need to Modernize? JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2023; 29:S107-S115. [PMID: 36223506 PMCID: PMC10573113 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study uses findings from the most recent iterations of the Public Health Workforce Interest and Needs Survey (PH WINS) to describe importance, skill level, and gaps of key public health competencies as well as characteristics associated with gaps. DESIGN Repeated cross-sectional analysis of the 2017 and 2021 PH WINS data. SETTING State and local health departments. PARTICIPANTS Nationally representative population of state and local governmental public health workers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Gaps of key public health competencies related to data, evidence-based approaches, health equity and social justice, factors that affect public health, cross-sectoral partnerships, and community health assessments and improvement plans. Gaps reflect areas of high importance and low skill level. Differences in gaps among the traditional public health workforce and those hired specifically for COVID-19 response. RESULTS For most competency areas, more than 20% of the public health workforce perceived a gap. Gaps related to environmental factors that affect public health, social determinants of health and cross-sector partnerships, and community health assessments and improvement plans were the largest. Tenure in public health practice, highest level of education, and having formal public health training were associated with lower odds of gaps in most areas. In a secondary analysis of traditional public health workforce compared with those hired specifically for COVID-19 response, those hired for COVID-19 response reported significantly fewer gaps for all but one competency considered. CONCLUSIONS A substantial proportion of the public health workforce perceives gaps in competency areas that are of high importance to the evolving role of public health. As public health continues to adjust and modernize in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other historic changes, understanding and addressing training needs of the workforce will be instrumental to public health's ability to respond to the needs of the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey P. Balio
- Center for Rural Health Research (Drs Balio and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit) and Department of Health Services Management and Policy (Drs Balio, Hale, and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit), College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee
| | - Nicole Galler
- Center for Rural Health Research (Drs Balio and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit) and Department of Health Services Management and Policy (Drs Balio, Hale, and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit), College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee
| | - Michael Meit
- Center for Rural Health Research (Drs Balio and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit) and Department of Health Services Management and Policy (Drs Balio, Hale, and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit), College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee
| | - Nathan Hale
- Center for Rural Health Research (Drs Balio and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit) and Department of Health Services Management and Policy (Drs Balio, Hale, and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit), College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee
| | - Kate E. Beatty
- Center for Rural Health Research (Drs Balio and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit) and Department of Health Services Management and Policy (Drs Balio, Hale, and Beatty, Ms Galler, and Mr Meit), College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee
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Yeager VA, Balio CP, Chudgar RB, Hare Bork R, Beitsch LM. Estimating Public Health Workforce Efforts Toward Foundational Public Health Services. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2022; 28:393-398. [PMID: 34939602 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The Foundational Public Health Services (FPHS) include a core set of activities that every health department should be able to provide in order to ensure that each resident has access to foundational services that protect and preserve health. Estimates of the public health workforce necessary to provide the FPHS are needed. OBJECTIVE This study assessed the potential use of an FPHS calculator to assess health department workforce needs. DESIGN AND SETTING Qualitative interviews were conducted via Zoom in December 2020-January 2021. PARTICIPANTS Seventeen state and local public health leaders. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Qualitative insights into the potential use of an FPHS calculator. RESULTS Almost all participants expressed that a reliable estimate would help them justify requests for new staff and that a calculator based on the FPHS would help organizations to critically assess whether they are meeting the needs of their communities and the core expectations of public health. Although participants expected that a tool to calculate full-time equivalent needs by the FPHS would be helpful, some participants expressed concerns in regard to using the tool, given ongoing workforce issues such as recruitment challenges, hiring freezes, and funding restrictions. An anticipated positive consequence of using this tool was that it may lead to cross-training the workforce and result in more diverse expertise and skills among existing workers. The other unintended consequences were that an FPHS calculator would require a substantial amount of time assessing the current FPHS efforts of existing staff and the results of the FPHS gap estimate could become the bar rather than the minimum needed. CONCLUSIONS The current public and political focus on public health infrastructure as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic has created a window of opportunity to create change. An FPHS-based staffing tool may help transform public health and initiate a new era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie A Yeager
- Department of Health Policy and Management, IU Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, Indiana (Dr Yeager); Center for Rural Health Research, East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, Johnson City, Tennessee (Dr Balio); Public Health National Center Innovation, Public Health Accreditation Board, Alexandria, Virginia (Ms Chudgar); de Beaumont Foundation, Bethesda, Maryland (Dr Hare Bork); and Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, Florida (Dr Beitsch)
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Locke R, McGinty M, Guerrero Ramirez G, Sellers K. Attracting New Talent to the Governmental Public Health Workforce: Strategies for Improved Recruitment of Public Health Graduates. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2022; 28:E235-E243. [PMID: 33570871 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Governmental public health (GPH) agencies need a diverse, skilled, and motivated workforce to advance health and well-being, but they face a number of recruitment challenges. While there has been massive growth in public health degree programs and graduates, those with a degree in public health are underrepresented in the GPH workforce. OBJECTIVES This study evaluates potential reasons undergraduate and graduate public health degree holders are underrepresented in the GPH workforce, assesses student awareness of and interest in GPH jobs, and identifies strategies for improved recruitment. DESIGN We conducted pilot focus groups to explore public health students' interest in working for GPH agencies, obstacles to employment, and how this career path could be better promoted. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Eight focus groups were conducted with a total of 33 participants at 3 universities and at the Annual Meeting of the American Public Health Association. Participants were enrolled full-time in or graduated within the last year from a public health bachelor's degree program or a public health master's degree program. Undergraduates had declared a public health major and were in their senior year; graduate students were in their second year and actively job seeking; or participants graduated within the past 12 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The focus groups sought to capture students' perspectives of GPH agencies and how they believe recruitment can be improved. RESULTS Participants described attractive job attributes including fulfilling, meaningful work; a position at a mission-driven organization; and the opportunity to make an impact on their community. Governmental public health agencies were viewed as bureaucratic, lacking innovation, and underresourced. Participants reported difficulties accessing and finding relevant job postings. CONCLUSIONS Key to effectively recruiting and retaining new graduates is understanding their perceptions about/experiences with GPH agencies. While GPH jobs have desired attributes, participants reported that health departments are not effectively recruiting them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Locke
- de Beaumont Foundation, Bethesda, Maryland (Mss Locke and Guerrero Ramirez and Dr Sellers); and Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (Dr McGinty)
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Krasna H, Fried L. Generation Public Health: Fixing the Broken Bridge Between Public Health Education and the Governmental Workforce. Am J Public Health 2021; 111:1413-1417. [PMID: 34464186 PMCID: PMC8489610 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2021.306317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heather Krasna
- Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, and the Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. Linda Fried is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
| | - Linda Fried
- Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, and the Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. Linda Fried is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
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Nelson-Hurwitz DC, Tagorda M, Kehl L, Patil U. What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Public Health? A Case Study of Graduate Outcomes From the University of Hawai'i. Front Public Health 2021; 9:661629. [PMID: 34434912 PMCID: PMC8380951 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.661629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the development of a Bachelor of Arts in public health, a common question among prospective students, faculty, and community members has been asked: “What will students do after graduation?” While national data on graduates are abundant, community inquiries sought more detailed profiles of local graduates. To address this need, data on 224 graduates of the Bachelors of Arts in Public Health (BAPH) degree at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa were collected through alumni outreach efforts and professional online profile searches. Data were compiled into a summary presentation and program “resume”. Findings indicated roughly 30% of BAPH graduates pursued graduate-level education and 43% were employed within a year of graduation. Employment in local NGOs and healthcare organizations was common, while bureaucratic challenges limited hiring at public agencies. A review of job titles suggested graduates were employed in program coordination or support staffing. Local program profiles, such as this one, complement national employment data. Moreover, these efforts may foster interest among prospective students and support from faculty, administrators, and employers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise C Nelson-Hurwitz
- Office of Public Health Studies, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Michelle Tagorda
- Office of Public Health Studies, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Lisa Kehl
- Office of Public Health Studies, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Uday Patil
- Office of Public Health Studies, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
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Plepys CM, Krasna H, Leider JP, Burke EM, Blakely CH, Magaña L. First-Destination Outcomes for 2015-2018 Public Health Graduates: Focus on Employment. Am J Public Health 2021; 111:475-484. [PMID: 33476234 PMCID: PMC7893365 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2020.306038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To improve understanding of the future public health workforce by analyzing first-destination employment outcomes of public health graduates.Methods. We assessed graduate outcomes for those graduating in 2015-2018 using descriptive statistics and the Pearson χ2 test.Results. In our analysis of data on 53 463 graduates, we found that 73% were employed; 15% enrolled in further education; 5% entered a fellowship, internship, residency, volunteer, or service program; and 6% were not employed. Employed graduates went to work in health care (27%), corporations (24%), academia (19%), government (17%), nonprofit (12%), and other sectors (1%). In 2018, 9% of bachelor's, 4% of master's, and 2% of doctoral graduates were not employed but seeking employment.Conclusions. Today's public health graduates are successful in finding employment in various sectors. This new workforce may expand public health's reach and lead to healthier communities overall.Public Health Implications. With predicted shortages in the governmental public health workforce and expanding hiring because of COVID-19, policymakers need to work to ensure the supply of public health graduates meets the demands of the workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Plepys
- Christine M. Plepys, Emily M. Burke, and Laura Magaña are with the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, Washington, DC. Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY. Jonathon P. Leider is with the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis. Craig H. Blakely is with the University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, KY
| | - Heather Krasna
- Christine M. Plepys, Emily M. Burke, and Laura Magaña are with the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, Washington, DC. Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY. Jonathon P. Leider is with the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis. Craig H. Blakely is with the University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, KY
| | - Jonathon P Leider
- Christine M. Plepys, Emily M. Burke, and Laura Magaña are with the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, Washington, DC. Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY. Jonathon P. Leider is with the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis. Craig H. Blakely is with the University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, KY
| | - Emily M Burke
- Christine M. Plepys, Emily M. Burke, and Laura Magaña are with the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, Washington, DC. Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY. Jonathon P. Leider is with the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis. Craig H. Blakely is with the University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, KY
| | - Craig H Blakely
- Christine M. Plepys, Emily M. Burke, and Laura Magaña are with the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, Washington, DC. Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY. Jonathon P. Leider is with the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis. Craig H. Blakely is with the University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, KY
| | - Laura Magaña
- Christine M. Plepys, Emily M. Burke, and Laura Magaña are with the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, Washington, DC. Heather Krasna is with Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY. Jonathon P. Leider is with the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis. Craig H. Blakely is with the University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, KY
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Krasna H, Czabanowska K, Beck A, Cushman LF, Leider JP. Labour market competition for public health graduates in the United States: A comparison of workforce taxonomies with job postings before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int J Health Plann Manage 2021; 36:151-167. [PMID: 33625747 PMCID: PMC8014097 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A strong public health workforce (PHW) is needed to respond to COVID‐19 and public health (PH) issues worldwide. However, classifying, enumerating, and planning the PHW is challenging. Existing PHW taxonomies and enumerations focus on the existing workforce, and largely ignore workforce competition for public health graduates (PHGs). Such efforts also do not utilize real time data to assess rapid changes to the employment landscape, like those caused by COVID‐19. A job postings analysis can inform workforce planning and educational program design alike. To identify occupations and industries currently seeking PHGs and contrast them with existing taxonomies, authors matched existing PHW taxonomies to standardized occupational classification codes, then compared this with 38,533 coded, US job postings from employers seeking Master's level PHGs from 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2020. Authors also analysed 24,516 postings from March 2019 to October 2019 and compared them with 24,845 postings from March 2020 to October 2020 to assess changing employer demands associated with COVID‐19. We also performed schema matching to align various occupational classification systems. Job postings pre‐COVID and during COVID show considerable but changing demand for PHGs in the US, with 16%–28% of postings outside existing PHW taxonomies, suggesting labour market competition which may compound PHW recruitment and retention challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Krasna
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA.,Department of International Health, School CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Katarzyna Czabanowska
- Department of International Health, School CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Health Policy Management, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Care, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Angela Beck
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Linda F Cushman
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jonathon P Leider
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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