Clinical Connection to Primary Prevention

Primary prevention is part of the critical work in every county health department. TDH nurses, dentists, physicians, APRNs and other clinical staff lead and lend their expertise within and external to their clinical settings. Clinician involvement in primary prevention is increasing across the state and country and includes a variety of activities that build a Culture of Health such as participating in Walk with a Doc; writing park prescriptions; serving on boards that address social determinants such as housing and transportation authorities and school wellness teams; giving talks about nutrition and chronic disease prevention at local clubs; tutoring school children; promoting early language and brain development advocating for tobacco prevention policies; counseling families about bike helmets; and more. Health professionals are recognized and trusted leaders, and as community members they can influence policy, systems and environment changes that lead to stronger, more prosperous and livable communities and good health.

For more information, contact Leslie Meehan at leslie.meehan@tn.gov.