Wayne health commissioner: ‘We are all public health’
Nicole Williams, left, of the Mental Health and Recovery Board; Vaughn Anderson, Health Department; Wendy Anderson, Health Department; and health commissioner Nick Cascarelli receive a proclamation from Wayne County commissioners Jonathan Hofstetter, Ron Amstutz and Sue Smail to commemorate Public Health Week.
Public Health Week, April 1-7, is a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the efforts of public health professionals, and recently, the Wayne County commissioners recognized the dedication of the professionals in the county public health department.
Public Health Week has evolved throughout its history to address health challenges facing society, ranging from infectious diseases and environmental hazards to mental health and social disparities. It highlights the efforts of public health practitioners, policymakers, researchers and advocates.
“In communities across the United States, individuals are changing the way they care for their health by avoiding tobacco use, eating healthier, increasing physical activity, and preventing unintentional injuries at home and in the workplace,” Wayne County commissioner Jonathan Hofstetter said, reading from a proclamation.
The field of public health encompasses a range of initiatives and efforts aimed at promoting and protecting the health of populations. From disease prevention and health education to policy advocacy and environmental health, public health professionals work behind the scenes to create healthier communities for all.
“We are all public health. It is not just the health department; it is everyone,” health commissioner Nick Cascarelli said. “We realize the value of all of our partners.”
One of the primary obstacles faced is the lack of awareness and education among community members regarding the importance of public health initiatives. Many individuals may not fully understand the impact lifestyle choices, environmental factors and access to healthcare services have.
“(The environmental health department) is there every day, regardless of whether people realize it or not, keeping us safe,” Cascarelli said, “making sure restaurants serve food that won’t make us sick and septic systems aren’t draining into groundwater. We kind of take those things for granted.”
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.