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Your daily public health briefing with the latest news from the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO).
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New CDC surveillance data show encouraging declines in several sexually transmitted infections—but a troubling increase in syphilis among newborns. In this episode, the Director of the Division of STD Prevention at the National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Dr. Bradley Stoner breaks down the key takeaways from the 2024 provisional STI surveillance report, including declines in chlamydia, gonorrhea, and primary and secondary syphilis, alongside the continued rise in congenital syphilis. The conversation explores what’s driving progress, the prevention strategies showing impact, and where urgent action is still needed. Dr. Stoner also discusses how states and local health departments can use provisional data to guide interventions, expand screening and treatment, and prepare for improved data access through CDC’s new One CDC Data Platform.Supporting Pharmacies as Contraception Access Hubs | ASTHOOrganizational Strategic Planning Guide | ASTHO
What does the public health workforce need to stay engaged, supported, and committed, and how can leaders act on those insights? Heather Krasna, Associate Dean of Career and Professional Development, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health joins us to break down new research on what younger public health workers value most at work. She explains why flexible schedules, remote or hybrid options, professional development, student loan repayment, and family-friendly benefits are increasingly important for retention, and how agencies can think creatively when salary increases aren’t always possible. Then, Omar Khalid, Director of Workforce at ASTHO, walks through key findings from the 2024 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey (PH WINS), the only nationally representative survey of the governmental public health workforce. He discusses why high turnover, burnout, and loss of institutional knowledge remain urgent concerns, alongside encouraging signs of improved supervisor relationships and workforce commitment. Journal of Public Health Management and PracticeStrengthening Public Health Through Communication: Resources to Get Started - Public Health Infrastructure GrantClimate and Health | ASTHO
How do states turn public health messaging into real behavior change and how do the places we live shape our health every day? In this episode, Dr. Steven Stack, Secretary of Kentucky’s Cabinet for Health and Family Services, discusses the Our Healthy Kentucky Home campaign and what it takes to move beyond awareness to action. Dr. Stack, an ASTHO member and former ASTHO president, shares how Kentucky is using simple, achievable goals—eat healthier, move more, and stay socially connected—along with clear calls to action, trusted partners, and data-driven refinements to engage residents and build long-term, sustainable health improvements. Then, Clint Grant, Director of Healthy Community Design, Chronic Disease and Health Improvement at ASTHO joins us to explore the growing role of Healthy Community Design in public health. From transportation and road safety to green space and mobility, Clint explains how decisions about streets, sidewalks, and transit are some of the most powerful, and often overlooked, public health choices states and communities make. States Invest in Public Health and Safety Through Transportation Policy | ASTHOKey Insights to Improve Infection Prevention in Dialysis Settings | ASTHOMeeting Home Page
What does it take to strengthen public health systems nationwide and why does flexible funding matter? In this PHIG Impact Report, we’re joined by SzePui Hughes, Senior Director of Public Health Workforce and Infrastructure at ASTHO to unpack the Public Health Infrastructure Grant (PHIG) and ASTHO’s role as a national partner. We’ll discuss how health departments are using PHIG funding to modernize data systems, expand community-based services, and build a more resilient workforce, while adapting to shifting priorities and pressures. SzePui shares key trends health leaders are raising, from peer learning and leadership development to long-term sustainability, and highlights real-world success stories from states and local agencies.
Diabetes remains one of the most serious and costly chronic diseases facing communities today. In this episode, ASTHO Vice President of Community Health and Prevention Christi Mackie breaks down the differences between type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, common symptoms parents should watch for, and why routine screenings are essential. The conversation focuses on prevention and management of type 2 diabetes, highlighting how public health and healthcare systems intersect through nutrition, physical activity, and policy initiatives such as food-as-medicine programs and SNAP waivers. The episode also examines ongoing challenges with insulin affordability and shortages, as well as growing state efforts to limit ultra-processed foods—particularly in schools—as part of a broader, systems-based approach to improving long-term health outcomes.Policy Trends Shaping Healthy Food and Chronic Disease in 2026 | ASTHOMeeting Home PageOrganizational Strategic Planning Guide | ASTHO
Community health workers (CHWs) play a critical role in bridging the gap between health systems and the communities they serve, especially in rural and underserved areas. In this episode, ASTHO Senior Director of Population Health, Alex Kearly, explains who CHWs are, how they build trust and address both health and social needs, and why Medicaid reimbursement can help make these roles sustainable. The conversation also explores the unique access challenges facing rural communities, from provider shortages to hospital closures, and the policy tools states can use to respond, including telehealth, workforce initiatives, and systems-of-care models. Looking ahead to 2026, the episode highlights what states should watch as new federal rural health programs begin to take shape.Policy Trends Shaping Access to Care in 2026 | ASTHOBraiding and Layering Funding to Address the Social Determinants of Health | ASTHOWebinar Registration - ZoomCMS Announces $50 Billion in Awards to Strengthen Rural Health in All 50 States | CMS
As behavioral health and overdose crises continue to strain health systems, states are rethinking how and where care is delivered. In this episode, Dr. Jerry Larkin, the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health and an ASTHO member, explains how youth-focused mobile response and stabilization services provide rapid, in-home crisis care and keep children out of emergency departments and reduce the need for hospitalization. The conversation explores why Rhode Island moved to require insurance coverage for these services and how states can sustain them amid funding uncertainty. Later, ASTHO Senior Director of Overdose Prevention, Richa Ranade, discusses the evolving policy landscape around naloxone, including efforts to expand access in schools, libraries, and other public spaces to prevent overdose deaths. Together, the guests highlight how prevention-focused, community-based approaches can save lives and strengthen public health systems.Policy Trends Shaping Behavioral Health in 2026 | ASTHOState of Rhode Island General AssemblyPolicy Trends Shaping Behavioral Health in 2026 | ASTHOData Modernization Primer and Tactical Guides | ASTHOMeeting Home Page
What happens when the federal government steps back and states are asked to lead? Continuing our Legislative Prospectus Series, which examines the public health policy trends set to shape 2026, ASTHO president and Connecticut commissioner of public health Dr. Manisha Juthani joins the show to discuss the creation of a new public health emergency funding safety net and the difficult decisions leaders face when planning amid constant uncertainty. Later, ASTHO’s senior director of public health infrastructure, Brian Lentes, breaks down key federal funding streams, governance models, and practical steps states can take to stabilize infrastructure, modernize data systems, and support the public health workforce. This episode highlights how strong relationships, thoughtful prioritization, and long-term planning can help states navigate today’s funding challenges.Policy Trends Shaping Public Health Funding and Administration in 2026 | ASTHOMeeting Home PageWebinar Registration - Zoom
In this episode, we continue our legislative prospectus series examining public health trends in policy going into 2026 with Meredith Allen, Vice President for Health Security at ASTHO. She’ll discuss the critical role immunizations play in preventing the spread of disease and protecting communities nationwide. The conversation explores the science behind vaccines, the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates, and how recent developments at the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) may affect providers, patients, and states, particularly around hepatitis B guidance. Meredith also breaks down why expanded syphilis screening laws are gaining momentum across states and how early detection, especially during pregnancy, can prevent severe outcomes like congenital syphilis. 2026 Legislative Prospectus Series | ASTHOWebinar Registration - Zoom
As flu cases climb across the country and pediatric deaths rise, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, ASTHO member and Michigan’s Chief Medical Executive, joins us to break down what this flu season means for families, health agencies, and health care systems. Dr. Bagdasarian discusses the troubling decline in flu vaccine uptake since 2020, the risks of overlapping surges of flu, COVID-19, and RSV, and why flu vaccination remains critical, even when it doesn’t prevent every infection. She explains how vaccines reduce severe illness and hospitalizations, helping protect already-strained health systems. The conversation also explores vaccine hesitancy during pregnancy, the importance of maternal vaccination, and how personal stories paired with data can help rebuild trust. Dr. Bagdasarian shares insight into the emerging H3N2 subclade K flu strain, what early data shows about vaccine effectiveness, and how public health officials are tracking flu trends using multiple surveillance tools.Meeting Home Page
In this episode and as part of our PHIG Impact series, Amy Perkins of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services talks about how the state is rethinking public health infrastructure funding to make life easier for local and tribal health departments. Amy explains how Wisconsin is using the Public Health Infrastructure Grant (PHIG) to reduce administrative burden, decentralize funding management, and prioritize flexibility over red tape. Amy discusses practical strategies like housing PHIG within a partnership-focused office, streamlining grant processes, supporting accreditation by directly covering PHAB fees, and quickly moving funds through regional service and resource-sharing grants. Amy also shares what she’s hearing from the field: how flexible funding is helping health departments sustain staff, invest in professional development, strengthen foundational capabilities, and better respond to community needs.About the PHIG National Partners - Public Health Infrastructure Grant
As part of our State Health Policy portfolio, ASTHO releases an annual legislative prospectus: a series of policy briefs summarizing state and territorial legislation that impacts public health. Today, Dr. Joseph Kanter, ASTHO’s CEO, will summarize the 2026 prospectus, identify trends in public health law for the next year, and provide a high-level overview for public health professionals and policymakers in time for upcoming legislative sessions.Accredible Unveils Certified Impact Awards 2025 WinnersPH-HERO | ASTHOPH-HERO | ASTHO
For the first time, all eight U.S. territories and freely associated states have been included in PHWINS, or the Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey. Rachel Hare Bork joins the show to discuss how this landmark pilot effort came together, why it took extensive travel and collaboration to make it happen, and what the results reveal about the public health workforce across the islands. She explores key findings, like the islands’ notably younger workforce, gaps in public health education, and the powerful new data leaders can use to advocate for resources. She also digs into why counting these communities matters for both territorial planning and the national public health conversation, and what it will take to continue this work in future PHWINS cycles.Webinar Registration - ZoomSubscribe | ASTHO
As health departments modernize their data systems, an unexpected challenge has emerged: traditional public health job classifications no longer match the reality of today’s data landscape. In this episode, Ari Whiteman, ASTHO’s Senior Advisor for Public Health Data and Informatics Workforce, talks about why the field urgently needs new informatics-focused roles, and what it will take to build them. Whiteman explains how interoperability, electronic health records, and complex data pipelines have outpaced legacy classifications like epidemiologist or public health analyst. Leveraging the Public Health Infrastructure Grant (PHIG), state, local, and territorial health agencies can build classification systems that enhance recruitment and retention of an informatics-savvy workforce. Updating job classifications can help clarify new roles, alleviate pressure on existing roles, and enable health agencies to sustain workforce infrastructure that is flexible and forward-looking. He discusses the hesitancy and bureaucracy that make change difficult, the opportunity cost of doing nothing, and why modernizing job classifications is essential for faster outbreak response, stronger surveillance, and smarter public health decision-making.Data Modernization Primer and Tactical Guides | ASTHOHow to Modernize Data Infrastructure: A Toolkit for Public Health Leaders | ASTHOASTHO Announces Sixth Developing Executive Leaders in Public Health Cohort | ASTHO
In today's PHIG Impact Report, Patricia Tilley, ASTHO member and associate commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, details the critical needs the Public Health Infrastructure Grant has helped with in her state. This work is supported by funds made available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), National Center for STLT Public Health Infrastructure and Workforce, through OE22-2203: Strengthening U.S. Public Health Infrastructure, Workforce, and Data Systems grant. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
New research out of New York shows that naloxone didn’t just save more than 6,500 lives in two years—it delivered one of the most dramatic returns on investment in public health. In this episode, Dr. James McDonald, ASTHO member and commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, breaks down the first statewide health-economic evaluation of naloxone administration. Dr. McDonald discusses how New York’s extensive overdose prevention programs provided the data needed to measure outcomes, why the study went beyond distribution counts to assess real-world effectiveness, and how the results—more than $3,200 saved for every $1 spent—can help other states make the case for investing in harm reduction. The conversation also explores lessons for policymakers, the essential role of training bystanders, and why naloxone remains the cornerstone of a comprehensive response to the opioid crisis. A clear, data-driven look at how one tool is saving lives—and why scaling it matters now more than ever.The Key Role of Cross-Sector Partnerships in Navigating Barriers | ASTHOWebinar Registration - Zoom
In this episode, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health and ASTHO member Dr. Debra Bogen joins us to break down a major change in national vaccine guidance, and why it has sparked concern among pediatric and public health leaders. Dr. Bogen explains the recent ACIP vote that weakened the long-standing recommendation for all newborns to receive the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth, a practice that has nearly eliminated the disease in young children since the early 1990s. She shares why this shift could create confusion for parents, what’s at stake for infant health, and how Pennsylvania is doubling down on clarity, access, and science-based information, including through a recent executive order from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Dr. Bogen also speaks to the broader moment facing public health, from rising misinformation to the importance of unified, evidence-driven messaging.Cultivating a Culture of Community and Belonging in the Workplace | ASTHO
In this episode, ASTHO member and Michigan Department of Health & Human Services Chief Medical Executive Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian breaks down a major development in national vaccine policy: the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ decision to narrow its guidance on the hepatitis B birth dose. Dr. Bagdasarian, who serves as ASTHO’s liaison to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, shares why the shift toward “individual decision-making” raises concerns for newborn safety, health equity, and public trust in vaccines. She discusses the vulnerabilities in our health system that could leave some infants unprotected, how localized transmission risks extend beyond maternal infection, and why softening long-standing guidance may unintentionally fuel doubt about other vaccines. Dr. Bagdasarian also explains why Michigan—and many other states—are choosing to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendation to continue the universal birth dose.Designing for Connection Webinar Series | ASTHOHome | Public Health Careers.org
As part of our spotlight series on artificial intelligence in public health, today’s episode explores the BEACON Portal—a groundbreaking collaboration between Google and the state of Illinois designed to streamline access to behavioral health services for children and families. Dr. Dana Weiner, Chief Officer for Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation in the Illinois Governor’s Office, and Julia Strehlow, Senior Advisor at the Illinois Department of Public Health discuss how BEACON centralizes information for families, enables secure cross-agency communication, and uses transparent AI-powered matching to connect young people to the services they’re eligible for—faster and more accurately than ever before. The conversation highlights Beacon’s unique development process rooted in family and provider feedback, the platform’s rigorous privacy and security protections, and how Illinois is partnering with clinicians statewide to boost adoption.
Kentucky is experiencing its largest spike in whooping cough cases since 2012, an alarming rise that has already claimed the lives of three infants in the past year. In this episode, Dr. Steven Stack, Secretary of Kentucky’s Cabinet for Health and Family Services, joins us to unpack what’s driving the surge, why waning vaccination rates matter, and how misinformation is complicating public health response efforts. Dr. Stack, ASTHO member and former ASTHO president, explains the cyclical nature of pertussis, how the pandemic disrupted typical disease patterns, and why the current spike is more severe than expected. He discusses the heartbreaking reality that none of the infants who died were vaccinated, and neither were their mothers, despite well-established evidence that maternal vaccination can provide newborns with lifesaving early protection.Creating Shared Vision and Governance for Data Modernization in Vermont | ASTHODon't Panic! A Panel on How to be an Effective Crisis Communicator | ASTHO
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