HPHA's 2016 National Public Health Week Celebration

National Public Health Week is an opportunity for health professionals to engage with individuals and communities and help them navigate the changing world of public health.

HPHA celebrated National Public Health week on Thursday, April 7 with an evening event featuring three distinguished speakers who discussed challenges and reported progress around the theme "Healthiest Nation 2030: Hawaii: the Healthiest State?". The United Health Foundation ranked Hawaii as the healthiest state in the nation for the fourth consecutive year, however, many of us who live and work in HI recognize that there's still much work to be done to address the more complex problems facing our communities. Three speakers addressed some of these issues for an audience of 100 members and guests.

Scott Morishige, Governor's Coordinator on Homelessness

"State of Hawaii's Response to Homelessness"

Dr. Tricia Wright, Waikiki Health's PATH Clinic

"How Could She Do That to her Baby? Understanding substance use disorders in pregnancy"

2015 • Waikiki Health’s PATH Clinic video

Jessica Yamauchi, Hawaii Public Health Institute

"Hawaii Public Health Institute: Working to Keep Hawaii the Healthiest State in the Nation"

Following the formal program, everyone enjoyed HPHA's Healthy Happy Hour featuring light pupus and special “mocktails.”