On June 20th, The Coalition for Health Funding and Trust for Americas Health released “Shortchanged: The Impact of Chronic Underinvestment in Public Health,” which discussed the public health gaps that result from persistent underfunding.
The Congressional Briefing and National Webinar were given by a panel including Erin Will Morton, Executive Director of Coalition for Health Funding; Tekisha Dwan Everette, Executive Vice President of Trush for Americas Health; Krista R. Wasowski, Health Commissioner of Medina County(OH) Health Department; Brian Castrucci, President and CEO of Beaumont Foundation. Tekisha Dwan Everette explained that investment in public health could play a more active role in primary prevention to reduce the death rate through suicide prevention programs, mitigating childhood expenses(aces), and school-based services to minimize the risk for youth. Krista R. Wasowski described federal and state decisions for funding that profoundly impact the ability to serve her community by funding not being able to go to community needs directly.
Health issues can dramatically impact families, children, and communities. Increased, sustained investment into public health that allows flexibility is crucial to support community needs and avert many health challenges nationwide.
By Ellison Olson, Policy Intern
