“In the complex realm of public health, finding timely and trustworthy information can be a challenge. Today, I want to share with you my go-to sources—carefully chosen to cover key topics crucial for effective public health leadership. While not exhaustive, these resources offer a well-rounded collection of materials. I encourage you to bookmark this page for easy access, ensuring a reliable reference point for your informational needs. Special thanks to DHSc Graduate Assistant, Meagan Jackson, for her assistance in curating this list.” -Julie L. Watson, PhD, OTR/L, Director Health Science Doctorate, Master of Public Health & Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Programs
Public Health
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): ATSDR is a federal public health agency in the United States working to prevent exposure to hazardous substances and mitigate their health effects. Part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ATSDR conducts research, assesses environmental health risks, and guides communities and healthcare professionals. By addressing the intersection of environmental hazards and public health, ATSDR plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities from the adverse health impacts of toxic substances.
American Public Health Association (APHA): APHA is a premier member organization dedicated to advancing public health professionals and community health. APHA has a vast array of resources, including a journal, newsletters, a strong legislative advocacy agenda, community forums, special interest groups, and many events for professional development. APHA has a strong student-serving mission, as well.
American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH): ASTMH is a leading professional organization dedicated to advancing research, education, and communication in tropical medicine and global health. Comprising scientists, clinicians, and public health professionals, ASTMH fosters collaboration and disseminates knowledge to address the challenges of infectious diseases prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. ASTMH contributes to developing innovative solutions and strategies to improve health outcomes in vulnerable populations worldwide through conferences, publications, and advocacy efforts.
Association of Public Health Laboratories: APHL is a vital organization at the forefront of advancing public health laboratory science in the United States. Committed to strengthening laboratory systems, APHL provides expertise, resources, and collaboration opportunities for public health professionals. Through advocacy and innovative solutions, APHL contributes to enhancing the capacity of public health laboratories to detect, monitor, and respond to emerging health threats.
Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH): ASPPH is a prominent organization committed to advancing public health education, research, and practice. ASPPH fosters collaboration and excellence in public health education by representing schools and programs across the United States. Through advocacy, research initiatives, and professional development programs, ASPPH plays a key role in shaping the future of public health professionals.
Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO): ASTHO is a leading organization dedicated to advancing public health across the United States and its territories. ASTHO supports state and territorial health agencies by providing leadership, advocacy, and resources to address complex public health challenges. Through collaboration and innovation, ASTHO plays a pivotal role in shaping policies, strengthening public health systems, and promoting the well-being of communities.
The Carter Center: Founded by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, it is a renowned non-profit organization committed to advancing human rights and alleviating suffering worldwide. With a focus on diplomacy, global health, and democracy-building, the Center engages in impactful initiatives to promote peace, fight infectious diseases, and strengthen democratic institutions. Through innovative programs and partnerships, the Carter Center contributes significantly to humanitarian efforts, leaving a lasting impact on communities and fostering positive change globally.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC, a key agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is a leading institution dedicated to safeguarding public health and safety. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the CDC plays a pivotal role in preventing and controlling infectious diseases, responding to public health emergencies, and promoting health and well-being through cutting-edge research and guidelines. As a global leader in public health, the CDC works collaboratively with domestic and international partners to address health challenges, ensure preparedness, and improve health outcomes for communities worldwide.
Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE): CSTE is a vital organization dedicated to advancing public health through epidemiology. Comprising state and territorial epidemiologists, CSTE facilitates collaboration, knowledge exchange, and professional development to enhance the practice of epidemiology at the regional and national levels. Through advocacy and promoting best practices, CSTE is pivotal in strengthening public health surveillance, response, and research.
National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO): NACCHO is a leading organization dedicated to advancing public health at the local level. Representing and supporting health departments nationwide, NACCHO advocates for policies that improve community well-being. By fostering collaboration and providing resources, NACCHO empowers local health officials to address public health challenges effectively and contribute to communities' overall health and resilience.
National Association of Local Boards of Health (NALBOH): NALBOH is a key organization dedicated to supporting and strengthening local health boards across the United States. NALBOH provides resources, training, and advocacy to empower local health leaders to safeguard community well-being. Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing, NALBOH fosters effective governance and decision-making to address public health challenges at the local level.
National Council on Aging (NCOA): NCOA is a leading organization dedicated to improving the lives of older adults in the United States. They offer a wide range of services and resources specifically designed to support older adults living alone. NCOA’s programs include health promotion, economic security, and social engagement.
National Environmental Health Association (NEHA): NEHA is a dynamic organization at the forefront of promoting and advancing environmental health. Committed to safeguarding public health and the environment, NEHA provides resources, training, and professional development opportunities for environmental health practitioners and specialists. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, NEHA plays a pivotal role in addressing emerging environmental health challenges and ensuring the well-being of communities across the United States.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH is the primary U.S. agency for medical research, comprising 27 Institutes and Centers. As part of the Department of Health and Human Services, NIH conducts and supports various biomedical research to improve public health. It funds studies, from basic science to clinical trials, and collaborates with scientists nationwide to advance medical knowledge and develop interventions for better health outcomes.
Public Health Foundation (PHF): PHF offers information, resources, tools, and training for professional development around their main focus areas of quality improvement, performance management, and workforce development. The Public Health TRAIN Learning Network is a well-known robust training platform with learning opportunities for health professionals, from students to seasoned leaders.
Public Health AmeriCorps: AmeriCorps and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have joined forces through Public Health AmeriCorps. Together, we are supporting the recruitment, training, and development of the next generation of public health leaders who will be ready to respond to the nation’s public health needs. Public Health AmeriCorps has two main goals: 1) address the public health needs of local communities by providing support in state and local public health settings and advancing more equitable health outcomes for underserved communities and 2) create pathways to good quality public health-related careers through onsite experience and training, with a focus on recruiting AmeriCorps members who reflect the communities in which they will serve.
U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps: The U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps is a uniformed service dedicated to protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the nation. As a vital component of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Commissioned Corps comprises highly skilled health professionals who serve diverse roles, from responding to public health emergencies to advancing global health initiatives. Committed to excellence and public service, the Commissioned Corps is critical in safeguarding public health and ensuring a healthier future for all Americans.
World Health Organization (WHO): The World Health Organization (WHO), established in 1948 as a United Nations specialized agency, is the global authority on international public health. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, it shapes health policies, coordinates global efforts, and addresses health challenges. WHO's functions include research, policy development, advocacy, disease control, emergency response, and capacity building. Governed by member states through the World Health Assembly, WHO aims for universal access to high-level health, emphasizing social determinants, and collaborates internationally for global well-being.
World Bank Group: The World Bank Group, consisting of five entities—IBRD, IDA, IFC, MIGA, and ICSID—aims to alleviate global poverty and foster sustainable development. IBRD provides financial support to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries, while IDA offers concessional loans and grants to the world's poorest nations. IFC stimulates private sector development, MIGA facilitates foreign investment by managing risks, and ICSID resolves investment disputes. Together, these institutions collaborate to address global challenges and promote projects across sectors to enhance the well-being of communities worldwide.
Cultural Competence
Culture Care Connection: Culture Care Connection is an online learning and resource portal developed by Stratis Health that offers valuable cultural competence resources and training opportunities that will promote health equity and reduce health disparities. Visitors to the site can quickly access written and data resources, including national interactive datasets on health outcomes. Though based in Minnesota, these resources apply to all, regardless of location.
National Center for Cultural Competence (NCC): Created by Georgetown University, the NCC provides national leadership on healthcare cultural and linguistic competence and offers training, resources, and tools to support health and mental health culturally competent care. These resources help providers address diverse populations' needs and the persistent disparities embedded in health and mental health care. Many resources are available in Spanish.
Think Cultural Health: This website features information, continuing education opportunities, resources, and more for health and healthcare professionals to learn about culturally and linguistically appropriate services, or CLAS. Launched in 2004, Think Cultural Health is sponsored by the Office of Minority Health.
Continued Learning/Certifications
Association for Prevention Teaching and Research (APTR): APTR is a national membership association for academic health professions institutions and faculty advancing prevention and public health education, training, and research. APTR enhances the knowledge, skills, collaborations, and resources needed to teach, practice, and promote population health improvement.
National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC): NCHEC is a U.S. non-profit accrediting health education professionals. Their certification programs, CHES and MCHES, offer recognized credentials indicating competence and ethical practice, contributing to elevated standards in health education. These certifications play a crucial role in advancing public health.
Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE): SOPHE is a non-profit organization committed to advancing health education and promotion. Through collaboration, advocacy, and professional development, SOPHE empowers health education professionals to improve public health outcomes and address disparities. The organization provides resources and networking opportunities to support members' mission to promote community health and wellness.
Journals & Research Publications
American Journal of Preventative Medicine: a scholarly journal that promotes health and prevents chronic diseases. As a valuable resource, it publishes research articles and reviews that contribute to developing and implementing effective public health interventions. The journal addresses various aspects of preventive medicine, including lifestyle interventions, vaccination strategies, and population-level health promotion. Preventive Medicine is a platform for advancing the understanding of preventive measures and their impact on public health outcomes.
American Journal of Public Health: a leading, peer-reviewed monthly journal dedicated to disseminating high-quality research, reviews, and commentary in the field of public health. AJPH covers a broad spectrum of topics, including epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, social determinants of health, and global health. It serves as a vital resource for public health professionals, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, facilitating the exchange of evidence-based knowledge to advance the understanding and practice of public health.
BMC Public Health: an open-access journal that publishes peer-reviewed articles covering a broad spectrum of public health topics. As part of the BMC series, it aims to make scientific research freely accessible to the global community. The journal features research articles, methodology papers, and reviews, allowing researchers and practitioners to share knowledge and insights on public health issues. BMC Public Health supports transparency and accessibility in scientific publishing, fostering collaboration and disseminating evidence-based information to benefit public health worldwide.
Frontiers in Public Health: an open-access journal that serves as a platform for publishing research and reviews across various disciplines within public health. As an inclusive and collaborative outlet, the journal encourages disseminating knowledge and exploring innovative approaches to address global public health challenges. Frontiers in Public Health covers many topics, fostering interdisciplinary discussions and providing a space for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to share insights and advance the understanding of public health issues. The journal's commitment to open access enhances the accessibility of research findings, contributing to the broader dissemination of evidence-based information.
Global Health Action: an international journal dedicated to global health issues, providing a platform for publishing research, reviews, and discussions that contribute to understanding and improving global health. As a peer-reviewed publication, the journal covers a broad spectrum of topics, including infectious diseases, health systems, healthcare delivery, and health policies in a global context. Global Health Action serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers involved in addressing health challenges at a global scale. The journal's contributions aim to inform evidence-based practices and strategies to enhance health outcomes worldwide.
Health Affairs: is a peer-reviewed journal and policy forum focusing on health policy and research. It is a leading platform for disseminating scholarly articles, analyses, and discussions on various health-related topics, including healthcare delivery, health systems, health economics, and health policy. Health Affairs aims to bridge the gap between academia, policy, and practice by providing evidence-based insights that inform health policy decisions and contribute to ongoing discussions in the field. The journal is recognized for its commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering dialogue on critical issues shaping the healthcare landscape.
Implementation Science: a scholarly journal that focuses on research on implementing evidence-based practices in healthcare and public health. The journal provides a platform for publishing original research articles, reviews, and methodologies that contribute to understanding and improving the process of implementing innovations and interventions in real-world settings. Implementation Science aims to bridge the gap between research and practice by exploring factors that facilitate or hinder successful implementation, fostering the translation of research findings into effective policies and programs. As an influential resource in the field, the journal plays a crucial role in advancing the science and practice of implementation.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health: an open-access, peer-reviewed journal that provides a comprehensive platform for researching environmental and public health relationships. Covering a wide range of topics, IJERPH publishes original research articles, reviews, and commentaries addressing the impact of environmental factors on health outcomes. The journal explores environmental pollution, occupational health, climate change, and community health. By disseminating evidence-based research, IJERPH contributes to understanding environmental influences on public health and informs strategies to promote global well-being.
Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health: a reputable journal focusing on epidemiological research and its application to public health issues. As a peer-reviewed publication, it is pivotal in disseminating high-quality research articles, reviews, and commentaries contributing to our understanding of population health. The journal covers various topics, including the social determinants of health, health inequalities, and the impact of community factors on public health outcomes. The Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health is a vital resource for researchers, epidemiologists, and public health professionals seeking to advance knowledge and promote evidence-based practices.
Journal of Health Communication: a scholarly publication focusing on the intricate relationship between communication, healthcare, and public health. As a peer-reviewed journal, it provides a platform for disseminating research articles, reviews, and analyses exploring various health communication aspects. The journal covers topics such as effective communication strategies, health literacy, patient-provider communication, and the impact of communication on health outcomes. The Journal of Health Communication contributes to understanding how communication influences health behaviors, healthcare delivery, and public health campaigns by bridging communication and health. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers aiming to enhance communication in health.
Journal of Public Health (Oxford): an international, multidisciplinary journal that provides a platform for publishing research on public health practice and policy. Covering diverse aspects of global and community health, the journal features scholarly articles, reviews, and commentaries, disseminating knowledge and insights that impact public health on a broad scale. The Journal of Public Health is crucial in fostering dialogue and advancing global public health community understanding.
The Lancet Public Health: a peer-reviewed scientific journal that focuses on publishing original research, reviews, and commentary in the field of public health. It covers a broad spectrum of topics related to population health, health systems, epidemiology, policy, and social determinants of health. The journal aims to contribute to the global understanding of public health issues and their implications for health policies and practices. Articles published in The Lancet Public Health undergo rigorous peer review to ensure the quality and reliability of the research, making it a reputable source for evidence-based information in the realm of public health.
The Milbank Quarterly: a multidisciplinary journal that publishes scholarly research on population health, health policy, and healthcare systems. Recognized for its commitment to advancing knowledge at the intersection of health and social sciences, the journal features articles, reviews, and analyses contributing to our understanding of health-related issues. The Milbank Quarterly is a platform for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to explore and discuss critical topics shaping healthcare policies and services. The journal focuses on evidence-based research and is vital in informing discussions on health and social policy, making it a valuable resource in public health.
Public Health Reports: the official journal of the U.S. Public Health Service, is a peer-reviewed publication dedicated to advancing public health knowledge. Since 1878, PHR has been a vital platform for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. It publishes diverse articles, including original research and commentaries, offering valuable insights into critical public health issues. Accessible online, PHR is an indispensable resource for professionals seeking the latest advancements and research in public health.
PubMed: a comprehensive online database maintained by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), a National Library of Medicine (NLM) division in the United States. It is a widely used resource for accessing abstracts and full-text articles in medicine, healthcare, and the life sciences. PubMed includes a vast collection of peer-reviewed biomedical literature, encompassing research articles, clinical studies, reviews, and more. Researchers, healthcare professionals, and the public can utilize PubMed to search for and retrieve information on a diverse range of health-related topics. The database is renowned for its extensive coverage and is a valuable tool for staying updated on the latest scientific developments in the medical and health sciences.
Social Science & Medicine: an interdisciplinary journal that explores the intersection of social, cultural, and behavioral factors with health and healthcare. With a focus on understanding the complex relationships between society and health, the journal publishes research articles, reviews, and commentaries. Social Science & Medicine contribute valuable insights into the social determinants of health, health disparities, and the impact of healthcare policies on diverse populations. It serves as a critical forum for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in the social dimensions of health and medicine.
Foundations and Nonprofit Organizations
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation: a globally influential philanthropic organization committed to addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. The foundation, founded by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and his former wife, Melinda Gates, focuses on improving health, reducing poverty, and expanding access to education and technology. With a mission to empower individuals and communities, the foundation invests in innovative solutions, research, and initiatives to bring about positive and sustainable change. Known for its strategic approach and collaborative partnerships, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation plays a pivotal role in shaping global health and development policies, aiming to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and productive life.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: is a distinguished philanthropic organization dedicated to improving health and well-being in the United States. As one of the nation's largest and most influential health-focused foundations, RWJF works tirelessly to address pressing health challenges and promote equitable opportunities for all. RWJF plays a pivotal role in shaping a healthier and more equitable future by funding research, initiatives, and policies that advance health and healthcare. Through collaboration with a diverse range of partners, the foundation strives to build a Culture of Health, fostering innovative solutions and transformative approaches to create lasting positive impacts on the nation's health landscape.
News and Media Outlets
BBC Health: a comprehensive and reputable online platform offering a wealth of information on health and well-being. As part of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), this section provides a diverse range of content, including news articles, features, and expert insights covering various aspects of health. From breaking news on medical advancements to in-depth coverage of health-related issues, the BBC Health section caters to a global audience, delivering accurate and accessible information. The platform is known for its commitment to delivering reliable health journalism, empowering readers with knowledge on topics ranging from public health and medicine to lifestyle and mental well-being.
CDC Newsroom: the go-to source for timely and critical updates in public health. As the official platform of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it provides the latest information on outbreaks, research, and health guidelines. Explore the CDC Newsroom by exploring public health initiatives, research findings, and emergency responses. It's an essential resource for anyone seeking reliable and up-to-date information on a wide range of health-related topics.
The New York Times Health Section: a comprehensive and trusted source of news and information that covers a wide spectrum of health-related topics. With a focus on delivering timely and authoritative content, the Health section provides readers with insights into medical breakthroughs, public health issues, wellness trends, and expert analyses. From the latest developments in healthcare to practical advice on maintaining well-being, the NYT Health section is a go-to resource for readers seeking reliable and up-to-date information on matters affecting individual and public health. With a commitment to journalistic excellence, the section contributes to the public's understanding of critical health issues, fostering informed decision-making and awareness.
NPR Health News: a reliable and accessible source for in-depth coverage of health-related topics. Produced by National Public Radio (NPR), it provides insightful stories, interviews, and analysis on a wide range of health issues. Whether you're interested in public health policy, medical breakthroughs, or personal well-being, NPR Health News offers engaging and informative content. Stay connected with the latest developments in health and medicine through NPR's trusted reporting and storytelling.
Reuters Health: a trusted source for comprehensive and up-to-the-minute health news. As part of the Reuters news agency, it delivers timely updates on global health issues, medical breakthroughs, and healthcare policies. Whether you're a healthcare professional, researcher, or health-conscious individual, Reuters Health provides reliable reporting and analysis, offering valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of health and medicine. Stay informed with Reuters Health for authoritative coverage of the latest developments shaping the world of health.
WHO News: the official newsroom of the World Health Organization (WHO), offering a comprehensive source for global health updates. Covering a diverse range of topics, WHO News provides the latest information on public health emergencies, disease outbreaks, and international health initiatives. As the leading international health agency, WHO News is a vital resource for staying informed about key developments in global health policy, research, and response efforts. Stay connected with WHO's authoritative updates and insights by exploring WHO News, contributing to a deeper understanding of the challenges and advancements in the field of international public health.
