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In a first-of-its-kind collaboration set to redefine public health education and practice in the region, Multnomah County today announced its formal affiliation as the first Academic Health Department with the Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University (OHSU-PSU) School of Public Health.

“Our new academic relationship with OHSU-PSU School of Public Health is a game-changer,” said Health Department Director Rachael Banks. “Academia fuels our practice, and our experience enriches their programs. By leveraging the combined expertise of our core staff and university faculty, we're building a stronger, more resilient public health and healthcare infrastructure for the future of Multnomah County.”

Academic Health Departments are formal partnerships between county health departments and academic institutions that strengthen the connection between education and practice in public health, similarly to teaching hospitals for doctors. By fostering collaboration, this new partnership ensures that future public health professionals are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and real world application to address the pressing public health needs of their communities.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to advancing health equity and community well-being,” said OHSU-PSU School of Public Health Dean Paul Halverson. “It builds a powerful bridge between education and real-life experiences, offering students hands-on opportunities to engage in the ever changing landscape and challenges of public health while supporting the vital work of the Health Department.

“Together, we are fostering a stronger, more resilient public health system—one that reflects diversity, innovation, and creativity as we both strive to improve the quality of life for all.”

The collaboration will offer a wealth of mutual benefits in teaching, research and service, strengthening both institutions and the communities they serve. Officials expect the Academic Health Department will:

Leverage the core staff and faculty of both institutions to strengthen the region’s public health and healthcare infrastructure.
Create a pathway of students to grow and stabilize the workforce.
Provide the Health Department with student interns and residents who can contribute to today’s public health work and tomorrow’s emerging challenges.
Enhance County staff retention and morale by providing opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

The Health Department aims to create a pathway for diverse representation of staff to teach classes, allowing students to learn more about the hands-on application of public health in a local government setting. The school has also asked Director Banks to inform curriculum decisions as they undergo a comprehensive review and consider enhancements.

The OHSU-PSU School of Public Health is ranked #22 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, placing it within the top 11% of all accredited schools of public health in the United States. OHSU-PSU School of Public Health is the only accredited school of public health in the state of Oregon.

Students will have additional opportunities to intern in the Public Health Division, and other Health Department Divisions, providing them important real-life experience practicing what they learn in the classroom.

This innovative partnership is poised to create a more diverse and skilled public health workforce, better equipped to address the complex health challenges facing Multnomah County and beyond.

Source: Multnomah County

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