Opinion | A time of momentum and hope for local public health in Michigan

At the closing session of the 2024 Michigan Premier Public Health Conference, a member of the audience asked an interesting question: What impact will the elections have on our plans for the next five years?

It was the right question. After two years of Democrat majorities in the state Legislature, Michigan has seen significant policy shifts on a wide range of issues. And post-pandemic, local public health has certainly emerged from the shadows in Lansing, assuming an important chair at the policy table. We have reaffirmed and bolstered connections to key stakeholders and partners in a shared effort to create and sustain healthier communities around Michigan.

This year’s public health conference drew a record attendance of more than 500 professionals from state and local public health sectors, as well as non-traditional partners from insurance, hospitals, housing, and more. We talked about key topics, looked back at top successes and learning moments from the past year, and hosted conversations about the top threats and opportunities on the horizon.

Immersed in public health topics for three straight days, the question caught me a little off-guard.  It reminded me of the stark reality that everything we hope to accomplish in public health is heavily influenced by political factors that are largely outside of our control. With some time to think about it, I think the answer to the question is: “We’re hopeful.”

Hopeful, because we’ve worked hard to live the key lessons of the pandemic. Around the state, local public health departments are taking extra steps to build their communications with local leaders and residents. We recognize the importance of everyone understanding our programs and what they deliver for communities. 

Hopeful, because we’ve used the past two-plus years to connect with, include and educate both sides of the aisle in Lansing. Neither party is interested in unhealthy communities. Public health is an investment in a better future, and we have been very encouraged by the chance to build broader support in Lansing.

Hopeful, because our connections to partner organizations — in Lansing and on the ground in communities around the state — have never been so strong. Local public health is about improving health outcomes for people. None of the best outcomes can happen without active support from groups most people wouldn’t think of as “public health” entities.

The word most heard at the 37^th annual Premier Public Health Conference was “momentum.” Our top challenges are clearly defined. Our path to address them is quickly coming into focus. And our partners, in Lansing and in cities and towns around Michigan, are increasingly aligned and collaborating on solutions to long-standing local and statewide problems.   

Nobody knows for sure what will happen on Election Day. But the momentum gathering around local public health’s goals will not slow as a result, because we are committed to the idea that healthier, happier communities are a valuable investment any elected official can make.