Partnership Between Local Health Departments and Schools of Public Health or Public Health Programs: An Analysis of National Profiles of Local Health Departments

Purpose: This study examines (1) the change in partnership between local health departments (LHDs) and schools of public health or public health programs (SPHs/PHPs) from 2016 to 2019, and (2) the LHD characteristics associated with this partnership. Background: The Council on Education for Public Health updated accreditation criteria in 2016, shifting from core curricula to competencies to better prepare public health graduates for the workforce. Strong partnerships between LHDs and SPHs/PHPs can enhance practical training and employment opportunities for students, ultimately bolstering the public health workforce. Methods: We analyzed the 2016 and 2019 National Profiles of Local Health Departments, using descriptive statistics to evaluate partnership levels and multivariable logistic regression to identify LHD characteristics associated with collaboration. Results: The partnership between LHDs and SPHs/PHPs was suboptimal and unevenly distributed. Engagement in activities like formal training agreements and advisory roles declined. Notably, the presence of formal written agreements for staff training and active recruitment of SPH/PHP graduates by LHDs showed significant improvements (χ2 = 3.84; p = 0.049; χ2 = 8.19; p = 0.004). Factors such as top executive characteristics, workforce capacity, and governance context influenced these partnerships. Conclusions: The study identifies gaps in LHD engagement with SPHs/PHPs and highlights opportunities for advocacy. Addressing these gaps can lead to a more competent workforce, thereby benefiting both LHDs and SPHs/PHPs in their service to communities.