In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, public health professionals stand as guardians of community well-being, diligently working to promote holistic wellness and improve the health of the general population. This commitment extends far beyond the walls of hospitals and clinics, encompassing a broad range of responsibilities aimed at safeguarding and enhancing quality of life. Whether you’re interested in studying public health or are contemplating a career as a public health manager, this article will give you a greater understanding of the following topics:
- Who are Public Health Professionals?
- The role of a Public Health Manager
- How to become a Public Health Professional
Who are Public Health Professionals?
Public health professionals can include a variety of careers and are not limited to working exclusively in a hospital setting. Other workplace settings include health departments, hospitals, clinics, universities, laboratories, and more. While the specific duties and responsibilities will differ depending on the public health job description and employer, these diverse and dedicated individuals work to keep the communities safe and healthy.
Public health professionals can be, but are not limited to:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Healthcare Directors and Administrators
- Scientists
- Epidemiologists
- Biostatistician
- Dieticians and Nutritionists
- Health Educators
- Social and Community Service Managers
While each role may have specific duties, the overarching goal remains consistent: safeguarding and promoting public health. Whether crafting educational initiatives, conducting research, or implementing preventive measures, each of these professionals play a pivotal role in fostering a healthier society.
Role of a Public Health Manager
Public health managers play a vital role in overseeing and planning health services, programs and initiatives. Their responsibilities range from managing entire facilities to managing specific departments, all while ensuring compliance with prevailing healthcare laws and regulations. The role of a public health manager is multifaceted, involving various responsibilities aimed at promoting and protecting the health of communities. While specific duties and responsibilities will vary based on the employer and educational training, here are some general key aspects of their role:
Potential Key Responsibilities:
- Managing and supporting teams
- Staffing and training
- Providing public health expertise and advice
- Managing public health budgets and resources
- Developing programs and policies
- Data analysis and evaluation
How to Become a Public Health Professional
It’s important to understand that not everyone working in public health earns a degree in public health. There are multiple undergraduate degrees that can get you on the path to working in the field of public health, however, those aspiring to be in public health management typically pursue advanced education, such as a Master of Public Health (MPH).
Undergraduate Programs to Consider:
- Health Sciences
- Public Administration
- Health Services Administration
- Business Administration
While some management positions might only require a bachelor’s degree, a public health management career usually requires a master’s degree or higher, as well as experience, due to the nature of responsibility you will hold. Once an undergraduate degree is obtained, the next step would be applying to a master’s program.
Los Angeles Pacific University offers a completely online MPH program. This program is aligned with competencies defined by the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) and the core functions outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO).
This program delivers relevant knowledge and skills in five core areas of public health:
- Biostatistics
- Epidemiology
- Health Services Administration
- Environmental Health Sciences
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
Whether you choose to advance in epidemiology, environmental health, or any other specialization within this broad discipline, know that your contribution matters. Having a career in public health is a noble pursuit and provides you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the well-being of communities.
Whether you have received your undergraduate degree or are looking to start your journey into public health, LAPU can help you along the way! Together, we can contribute to creating healthier and happier communities.