The 2020s have undeniably been a transformative decade for public health, marked by the unprecedented challenges and lessons brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. This era has not only heightened societal awareness of public health but also significantly influenced the roles and perceptions of public health leaders within local health systems. As we navigate through this decade, the question arises: How influential is public health within local health systems today?

The Rise of Public Health During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic placed public health at the forefront of global consciousness. Public health officials, particularly Directors of Public Health (DPHs), found themselves in critical roles, guiding local responses and forming new alliances within local government and the NHS. According to Luca Tiratelli’s article for The King’s Fund (Article), this period marked a significant increase in the influence of DPHs, a trend that was expected to continue as integrated care systems (ICSs) were introduced.
Integrated Care Systems: A New Era for Public Health
The establishment of ICSs in 2022 further cemented the role of public health within local health systems. These statutory bodies were tasked with addressing health inequalities, creating a substantial opportunity for public health to thrive. The proliferation of roles focused on populating health within ICSs has been a promising development. However, as Tiratelli notes, the real-world impact of these changes varies significantly across different regions.
Challenges and Variations in Influence
The experiences of public health leaders post-pandemic have been mixed. While some DPHs have maintained their heightened influence, others have seen their roles revert to pre-pandemic norms. This variation is also evident within ICSs, where the overlapping crises within the NHS often push acute care and financial issues to the forefront, sidelining public health priorities. This inconsistency underscores the need for sustained commitment and resources to ensure public health remains a central focus.
Upscale Staffing’s Commitment to Public Health
At Upscale Staffing, we recognize the critical role that public health plays in shaping healthier communities. Our commitment to connecting healthcare facilities with top-notch professionals is driven by an underlying understanding that public health is not just about responding to crises but also about building resilient systems that can promote wellness and prevent disease.
Our staffing solutions, including roles for CNAs, GNAs, LPNs, and RNs, are designed to support integrated care efforts and address health inequalities. By providing skilled healthcare professionals, we aim to enhance the capacity of local health systems to deliver comprehensive care.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Public Health
The future of public health within local health systems holds significant potential. The capacity and leadership influence created by new roles in population health can drive transformational work throughout this decade. However, as highlighted in The King’s Fund article (www.kingsfund.org.uk), realizing this positive vision requires that ICSs and local governments be given the necessary resources and bandwidth to prioritize public health.
Conclusion
Public health’s influence within local health systems has evolved significantly over the past few years. While challenges remain, the lessons learned and the structures put in place during the pandemic offer a foundation for continued progress. At Upscale Staffing, we are proud to support this journey by providing healthcare facilities with the professionals they need to promote and protect public health. Source (Kings Fund)
By acknowledging the past, understanding the present, and preparing for the future, we can ensure that public health remains a cornerstone of local health systems, leading to healthier and more equitable communities.