Introducing the ASPPH Messaging Guide—A Resource for Those Working in Public Health

June 26, 2024

Public health is at a pivotal moment. Our field has significantly impacted lives and health for the better, yet we continue to confront challenges such as the lingering effects of COVID-19, climate change, gun violence, misinformation, and structural racism.

To navigate these challenges and continue our groundbreaking work, we must communicate our efforts effectively to diverse audiences including policymakers, communities, and future public health professionals. We are excited to introduce the ASPPH Messaging Guide, a comprehensive resource designed to enhance our communication strategies and effectively convey the critical role of academic public health. As we face unprecedented challenges and opportunities in public health, clear and consistent messaging is vital to our mission.

Core Messages (H2)

The guide provides essential messaging frameworks that highlight the impact and importance of public health interventions. Some of the key messages and sections in the guide include:

• Defining and Differentiating Public Health & Academic Public Health: Public health improves the health and quality of life for communities through education, disease prevention, and health promotion. Academic public health trains the next generation of resilient, compassionate, and visionary public health professionals
• Importance of Accreditation: Accreditation ensures that public health programs meet rigorous standards, providing students with quality education and opening doors to career opportunities
• Addressing Skeptical Audiences: Effective communication involves understanding and addressing the values and beliefs of our audiences. This includes presenting evidence-based data, emphasizing public-private partnerships, and highlighting the economic benefits of public health interventions

ASPPH's Strategic Priorities (H2)

The guide also outlines some of ASPPH's strategic priorities, focusing on critical areas such as:

• Climate Change and Health: Public health's role in mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts is crucial. We must train future experts, conduct relevant research, and advocate for necessary policies
• Disinformation and Misinformation: Combatting misinformation requires building trust, ensuring access to quality health information, and engaging in two-way conversations within communities
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice (DEIJ): Promoting DEIJ principles within academic public health is essential for addressing health disparities and fostering a more equitable public health workforce

The ASPPH Messaging Guide is a critical tool for the public health community. It equips public health leaders with the strategies and messages needed to effectively communicate the value and impact of their work.

Together, let's leverage this guide to inspire, educate, and advocate for a healthier and more equitable world.