DPH Prepares for Public Health Week with Annual Conference

Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear today proclaimed the week of April 21 Public Health Week in the state. The observation aims to draw attention to important public health issues and acknowledge the contribution public health has made to the people of the commonwealth.

“Public health touches the life of every Kentuckian in some way – whether it’s helping prepare for a disaster or emergency, encouraging the public to get a flu shot, or helping someone with diabetes better manage the disease,” said William Hacker, M.D., Health and Family Services’ acting undersecretary for health and public health commissioner. “During Public Health Week, we hope all Kentuckians will take a moment to consider the impact of the thousands of men and women who comprise our state’s public health infrastructure. They help save lives and make the commonwealth a healthier place to live every day.”

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Kentucky Public Health Association (KPHA) will gather in Louisville April 21-24 for the KPHA’s annual conference.

The annual conference draws health experts who meet to review Kentucky’s progress and learn more about ongoing projects in the commonwealth. Attendees include representatives from DPH, staff from local health departments across the state, health care providers, health educators and business people, such as restaurant owners and grocers.

“Our partnership with the KPHA has helped build a strong public health network in Kentucky,” said Steve Davis, M.D., deputy DPH commissioner. “This has led to countless successful initiatives, innovative programs and stronger communication among all our partners. It is truly rewarding work.”

“For citizens, representatives of related industry, public heath professionals, our stakeholders and others interested in public health, this educational conference is second to none,” said KPHA President Guy Delius. “This will bring public health professionals from all across the commonwealth together to identify means to help further improve conditions, programs and systems that relate to public health, particularly prevention.”

The conference will feature more than 80 speakers on topics such as public health administration, nutrition, public health nursing, epidemiology, environmental health, community health planning, home health, administrative support and clinical and community services.