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Environmental Health Practice Challenges and Research Needs for U.S. Health Departments
Bryan W Brooks1, Justin A Gerding2, Elizabeth Landeen3
1Environmental Health Science Program, Dept. of Environmental Science, Institute of Biomedical Studies, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA.
Environmental Health Perspectives
|December 5, 2019
Summary
Environmental health (EH) professionals face significant challenges, with many nearing retirement and few students entering the field. This study identifies key practice challenges and research needs to revitalize EH services.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health Sciences
- Public Health Practice
- Workforce Development
Background:
- Environmental health (EH) professionals are crucial for public health services.
- A significant portion of EH professionals in the US are nearing retirement.
- There is a low number of public health students pursuing EH concentrations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify priority environmental health (EH) practice challenges.
- To determine research needs for improving EH practice in US health departments.
- To inform strategies for revitalizing the EH workforce.
Main Methods:
- A horizon scanning approach using a web-based survey of 1,736 EH professionals.
- Thematic analysis of survey responses to identify primary EH topic areas.
- Focus group discussions at a workshop to develop priority problem statements.
Main Results:
- 29 priority problem statements were identified across 6 EH topic areas: drinking water, wastewater, healthy homes, food safety, vectors/pests, and emerging issues.
- EH professionals are key in diagnosing, intervening, and preventing public health threats.
- The study highlights critical needs for training, partnerships, and research.
Conclusions:
- Addressing identified challenges and research needs is essential for effective environmental public health service delivery.
- Recommendations include revitalizing EH practice through updated training, new partnerships, and targeted research.
- Strategic initiatives are needed to ensure a robust future for environmental health professionals.