The importance of Public Health

The importance of public health is undeniable, and the work of these professionals is highly respected, valued, and utilised across populations and organisations. Covid-19 has hugely increased our awareness of the role of public health professionals because those working in public health have had to learn about responding to a new disease and how to prevent it.

Healthcare experts play a particularly important role in helping to further public health efforts in a variety of ways, including research, education, medicine and vaccine distribution. Students also play an important role in public health, often contributing to research efforts while completing healthcare degree programmes.

Roles in public health

Public health professionals fulfil many roles. Sometimes, public health officials can help prevent disease outbreaks. In other cases, public health efforts can assist rural communities, implement education programmes and complete preparatory research projects. No matter the type of outreach, it contributes directly to the greater good of societies around the world.

In other words, officials in the public health sector provide advice and direction that drive health forward, reducing pressure on medical facilities and the cost of medical care to society. Public health officials also ensure they react appropriately in the face of a viral illness - especially during the current monkeypox outbreak.

Monkeypox is a viral illness that begins with flu-like symptoms and later causes a distinctive rash. Most people who contract monkeypox recover with no serious complications, but it can be a serious disease for some individuals. In May 2022, outbreaks happened in Europe, Australia, and North America. The virus that causes monkeypox is similar to the smallpox virus. This means smallpox vaccines can help prevent people from acquiring it. There is no proven treatment for monkeypox, so preventing the spread is vital for controlling outbreaks.

To do this - communication is the core of effective public health. One of the main responsibilities is to keep society apprised of the latest health developments and frequently communicate with society. Therefore, effective risk communication is crucial for enhancing understanding of health threats and to support the public in making informed decisions for mitigating the risks.

Pursuing a career in public health

When you complete a degree in public health, you take the first step toward impacting the health of your community. You could be rising to the challenge and making tangible change through public health interventions such as vaccination, motor vehicle safety, control of infectious diseases and preventing obesity and diabetes.

Students interested in this field can obtain jobs with a public health degree in several different healthcare fields, and embark upon careers such as:

• Health educator
• Emergency response planner
• Health Administration
• Public Health Policy
• Infectious Disease
• Global Health
• Nutrition
• Biostatistics
• Maternal and Child Health

Want to learn more about protecting communities and preventing diseases through prevention policies and environmental strategies? If so, then your first step towards a successful career in this field is a public health degree with Learna | Diploma MSc.

About our Public Health programme

Our public health courses are validated by the University of South Wales, a modern industry focused university rated top 10 in the UK. They ensure that the quality of content, teaching, and research meets the highest academic standards. That means our students will come away with the best experience possible!

On completion of this popular course, you will gain a range of invaluable skills, approaches, new perspectives and ways of thinking. You will be able to communicate effective interventions to protect populations and initiate and lead complex public health processes within the context of a multidisciplinary team. You will also have the ability to deliver management strategies for the investigation and treatment of populations presenting with health improvement needs.

This course is not just designed for healthcare professionals, but for those working in environmental health and even the charity sector like Save The Children and Clean Air Fund. Undertaking our flexible, affordable Postgraduate Public Health course will give you the opportunity to improve the lives of people around the world and boost your career prospects.

This is an opportunity for you to strengthen your existing knowledge and skills, build your CV and rise to the challenges of assessing and improving Public Health in your area.

If you’re interested in obtaining a public health degree - visit our course page, or book a call with one of our admissions officers who are happy to help with any questions that you may have.

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