The annual meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA) is coming up later this year, so this is a good time to seriously consider attending. In this episode, I discuss what the APHA is, what happens at the annual meeting, and how it can help you grow your public health career.
Summary from one of our community group polls
Poll: How many Public Health and Epidemiology Careers Podcast listeners completed a degree in Public Health between June 2017 and May 2018?
45 completed a Master’s in Public Health
13 completed a Master’s in another degree
8 completed a Bachelor's in Public Health
2 completed a PhD in Public Health
Sections of the APHA
Currently, the APHA has 31 primary sections, or areas of research and interest. Each member is allowed to choose 2 sections. These sections allow members to share ideas, research, collaborate on projects, enhance their network, and provide opportunities for career development and mentoring.
These sections can be especially helpful if you feel overwhelmed, frustrated or feel that many resources are beyond your reach. Dig around their website and reach out to others in your interest area.
Sections:
Aging and public health
Alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs
Applied public health statistics
Chiropractic health care
Community health planning and policy development
Community health workers
Disability
Environment
Epidemiology
Ethics
Food and nutrition
Health admin
Health informatics information technology
HIV and AIDS
Injury control and emergency health services
Integrative, complementary, and traditional health practices
International health
Law
Maternal and child health
Medical care
Mental health
Occupational health and safety
Oral health
Physical activity
Pediatric health
Public health education and health promotion
Public health nursing
Public health social work
School health education and services
Sexual and reproductive health
Vision care
There are also 2 Special Primary Interest Groups:
Pharmacy
Veterinary public health
What happens at the APHA annual meeting?
Over 12,000 members (students, early-career professionals, and seasoned public health workers) connect, collaborate, and grow their networks and careers.
Allows members to present new leading research to their colleagues and peers.
Large group presentations as well as specialized section meetings and events.
EXPO with public health universities and industry products and services.
How Does the APHA Benefit Students?
Student members of the AHPA are automatically included in student assembly
Great introduction to the large network of the AHPA
By getting involved students can connect with peers, find mentors, dig deeper into their interests and define they want to do.
The APHA makes students better prepared to complete their education and move on into career in public health.
Important information about the 2018 Annual APHA meeting
Nov. 10-14 in San Diego, CA.
The theme is Creating the Healthiest Nation: Health Equity Now
Make your plans now to register, travel, and attend.
Take what you learn back home and feed off of it for the rest of the year
Are there other public health organizations?
In addition to the APHA, there are many other public health associations. No matter which organization you join, it is important to find a place to network, learn, explore, and grow. You can request a guide to Public Health Organizations from the resources page of our website, and learn about organizations worldwide.
Additional References:
Like This Episode?
Click links below to share this episode with your network!
Comment below with your favorite takeaway!