Field Notes

The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community conducted a health assessment to address climate change impacts on first foods, incorporating local knowledge and tribal values within the scientific research process.

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ syringe services program aims to decrease the spread of bloodborne infections while helping people who inject drugs access treatment for substance use disorder.

Strengthening family bonds through shared meals can increase children’s sense of connectedness and protect them from various risk factors, such as substance abuse and depression. A Kentucky project is taking a unique approach to promote connectedness at the dinner table and bring family members together.

In response to a novel “superbug” discovered at a long-term acute-care hospital, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County responded rapidly to contain the outbreak and create tools for future use.

Through its FluSafe recognition program, Minnesota is helping hospitals and nursing homes boost employee flu vaccination rates, promoting safety for patients and healthcare workers.

New York City’s novel “Pharmacy to Farm Prescriptions” program has a double benefit—providing SNAP recipients with the means to buy heart-healthy fruits and vegetables and a great incentive to fill their high blood pressure prescriptions.

Salt Lake County recognized that its most at-risk population was also the least likely to seek medical attention, so the health department developed mobile immunization teams to bring the hepatitis A vaccine to them.

Maine reduced the blood lead level that triggers home lead inspections, resulting in removal of more lead hazards and reduced lead levels in children.

Chicago works with community organizations and philanthropy on a citywide initiative addressing social determinants of health and institutionalizing a Health in All Policies approach.

South Carolina created a partnership with academia, hospitals, and long-term-care facilities to improve use of antibiotics and prevent antimicrobial resistance.

Rhode Island braided funding from multiple sources to improve health in communities with high injury or illness rates and achieved measurable impact.

Alabama joins with local health officials, outdoor recreation advocates, an insurance company, and other partners to boost physical fitness and healthy lifestyles.