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Cross-cutting department capabilities
Media support
With the funds we received from FPHS investment in Communications, we hired a full-time dedicated media manager. Now we are more easily able to respond quickly to the hundreds of media inquiries we receive annually to get spokespeople on-air to share critical health information. Our media manager has also developed strong relationships with local multilingual and community media outlets, which we did not have in the past. These relationships are resulting in increased media coverage of key public health information for communities of color and non-English speakers. Over time, we believe this will result in more residents receiving actionable information to protect their health, and will build trust and credibility that public health is here to serve all communities.
Supporting public health policy infrastructure
With FPHS investment in strengthening our department’s policy infrastructure, we hired a policy analyst with expertise in Medicaid, the King County Council legislative process, health equity, and public health policy. This role has enhanced our ability to develop communication tools for legislators and elected officials on the importance of access to health care and public health services. The policy analyst was instrumental in establishing a universal dental access program and, during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitated community input on masking and vaccination policies through our advisory group. Previously, we lacked the capacity to engage community partners in policy discussions. Now, with dedicated expertise, we can build critical relationships that support policy development and advocacy to better serve the people of King County.