public health VO I C E S
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We have an immediate opportunity to improve the health of people in our state, and we cannot let it slip by. Public health must lead innovative change with our community and clinical care partners to improve health and reduce inequities as Washington State fully embraces implementation of the Affordable Care Act. To succeed, we have to be nimble and flexible, define the collective impact we intend to have, and prioritize prevention. “One way we’re trying to do this is by developing an innovative model called Accountable Commu-
John Wiesman MPH, Yale University DrPH, University of North Carolina Secretary of Health State of Washington Clinical Professor Health Services Dean’s Council School of Public Health
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nities of Health. This new concept leverages the great work already being done in this state with community health assessments and improvement plans. Under this model we’ll bring together public health, human services, health care, education, and others in local communities to take on health issues from all sides. Through this approach I’m confident we can improve the health of our communities, improve community supports that reduce hospital readmissions and unnecessary emergency room visits, and foster healthy starts for our next generation.
UW School of Public Health Annual Report 2013
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