Health care is a field that never stays the same, driving public health professionals of every type to stay current on policies, technical proficiencies and professional knowledge. Most public health careers must be maintained through professional development and continuing education. Today, finding sessions that meet your focus area is easier than ever thanks to webinars, podcasts and annual meetings that allow public health professionals to brush up and stay ahead on what’s happening in health around the world. From universities to professional organizations, here are a variety of ways to meet your professional development goals:
The American Public Health Association (APHA)
APHA’s professional development system offers a variety of instructional programs for continuing education (CE) credit. Members of the APHA may view CE programs from partner organizations and access links to podcasts on issues like sodium reduction, climate change and transportation. Podcasts may be downloaded via iTunes, or participants may download transcripts for review. Members can also receive CE credit for attendance at current or past annual meetings of the APHA.Academy Health
This leading organization serves the fields of health services and policy research. The group supports its members in the development of “timely evidence to increase the quality and value of health care.” Members may access online seminars both live and in on-demand formats, plus participate in a variety of special events from policymakers, service researchers and practitioners. Some programs are free to members, and others require additional fees.Association For Prevention Teaching And Research (APTR)
APTR is “dedicated to advancing population health and disease prevention in the education of physicians and other health professionals.” The group offers a variety of live events, an annual meeting for members, curricular tools and professional development programs. The group works closely with larger organizations, like the Center for Disease Control.The American Society Of Tropical Medicine And Hygiene
This group of scientists, clinicians and program professionals from around the globe focuses on the promotion of global health through the prevention and control of infectious and other diseases. Members may participate in a variety of continuing education efforts that include both certificate and diploma courses, and educational videos. Members may also attend annual conferences for additional training.CORE Group
Focusing on the health of women and children around the world, members emphasize health promotion and prevention of death from preventable causes. Educational opportunities include the “practitioner academy” and information on how to build better community health resources.Center For Public Health Practice At The University Of California
Designed for students, alumni and practitioners, the group offers a variety of workshops, professional development opportunities and events. Grants are also available to help students attend public health events in other areas.Public Health Foundation
This group focuses on performance management and quality improvement within the public health sector. Visitors to the site will find a variety of videos, training curricula and core competency standards to assist public health providers in developing practice standards.School Of Public Health, State University Of New York
Many educational centers offer CE units through their public health programs. The Center for Public Health Continuing Education in Albany, New York, offers both classroom and online programs for public health leaders.Office Of Surveillance, Epidemiology And Laboratory Services, CDC
This government-based branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers leadership in public health training and education. Find internships, fellowships, student programs and a variety of CE opportunities here.Health Equity Initiative
In-person and web-based workshops provide professional development opportunities on a variety of public health and global issues. Certificates are offered for participants who attend a set number of workshops within a predetermined time frame. Average workshop cost is $30.This article was written by Social Media Outreach Coordinator, Sarah Fudin on behalf of CAREEREALISM-Approved Partner, 2tor – an education-technology company that partners with institutions of higher education such as the George Washington University to deliver top public health programs online.
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