Campaign Aims to Address Nationwide Shortage of Public Health Workforce

New Initiative: Strong Workforce, Healthier Communities

The National Hispanic Health Foundation (NHHF) recently initiated a campaign supported by the CDC, titled Strong Workforce, Healthier Communities. This groundbreaking project aims to tackle the existing shortage of public health professionals, which has been placed under immense strain due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent crises. With an estimated 80,000 additional public health professionals needed to adequately support communities across the nation, this campaign targets urgent recruitment and retention efforts.

Launched on July 20, 2026, the campaign begins its implementation in four pilot cities: Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Phoenix, and Atlanta. These regions have been chosen as testing grounds for innovative outreach strategies that NHHF aims to replicate nationwide. The de Beaumont Foundation's analysis indicates a pressing staffing gap that is only expected to grow due to high attrition rates in the public health sector.

Dr. Elena Rios, NHHF's president, emphasizes the importance of cultivating the next generation of public health leaders from within communities. “By investing in this campaign, we seek to inspire and attract future professionals who are committed to serving their neighborhoods efficiently and effectively,” she stated. This drive is crucial as experienced personnel are exiting the workforce faster than they can be replaced, leading to an alarming depletion of services during emergencies.

In addition to recruiting new talent, the campaign also addresses the representation of various communities within the public health workforce, acknowledging that many young adults do not see themselves in this field, which can limit their interest in pursuing careers in health.

Guadalupe Pacheco, the program director at NHHF, shared insights into the dire situation. “Our public health systems at the city, county, and state levels are stretched to their limits. We face a significant threat with the workforce dwindling and the urgency to fill these gaps becoming critical.” The campaign serves as part of NHHF's broader initiative—the Recruiting and Retaining a Public Health Workforce Program, which is a five-year collaboration that began in 2022.

The resources offered through this campaign include digital career guides, webinars, and comprehensive workforce development tools intended for students, professionals, and hiring managers. The program also explores the use of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, in enhancing recruitment and retention strategies.

For those seeking to contribute or learn more about workforce initiatives, the campaign offers various tools freely available online via the NHHF's website. Resources are tailored to not only educate aspiring public health workers but also to support ongoing professional development.

To get involved or to download the toolkit, visit nationalhispanichealthfoundation.org/public-health-workforce-campaign.

As this initiative unfolds, it promises not only to close the workforce gap but also to revitalize public health sectors across the country, ensuring communities receive the essential services needed for a healthier future.