Frontline Blog
Why support for local public health leaders is higher than you think
October 2023
Public health institutions were hit hard in the court of public opinion during the pandemic, with poll after poll showing a precipitous decline in trust. This all too often manifested as threats, harassment and even outright violence against health leaders, resulting in resignations and retirements.
But national surveys also show Americans strongly support cities taking action to address issues like housing, equity and education. More funding and resources from Congress, along with additional investments from state and local governments, would allow local public health departments to be even more responsive to community needs. The impact on our nation would be transformational.
In an opinion piece published in Route Fifty, BCHC’s executive director Chrissie Juliano discusses recent polling that shows the American public supports the mission of public health. It’s policymakers who now need to honor those priorities.
