Introduction
The work aims to underline the Public Health Foundations module as a watershed in my academic and professional path and speculate on its explicit implications in the field of public health. I anticipate bringing the detailed skills and knowledge I have amassed to the fore and further demonstrating its practical application in the paper. Finally, it attempts to lay out future strategies for further development. In retrospect, the paper represents the degree of transformation I have undergone during this process and, therefore, the influence the module has exerted over me in shaping my perceptions, honing my skills, and continuous professional development in the field of public health that is in a state of flux.
Relevance of the Module in Public Health
“Public Health Foundations” is the foundation block of my public health degree when I look at the mass knowledge I have gained from this module. One can see the benefits derived from this module by dominating the critical objectives in Public Health as advertised by the Faculty of Public Health (FPH). For example, health promotion, epidemiology, and health policy were topics written about directly relating to the competencies required by a Public Health Practitioner. It translates into solid base knowledge for developing a more hands-on approach later in your Public Health career, translating those paper-based ideas into real-life and effective Public Health interventions.
As I navigate the dynamic landscape of public health, the module’s insights serve as guiding principles, ensuring that my practice is evidence-informed and aligned with the highest standards of professional competence and ethical conduct (Tulchinsky, 2019). The module’s impact extends beyond the academic realm, shaping my approach to public health challenges with a comprehensive and competency-driven perspective.
Skills and Knowledge Gained
The journey through this module has been transformative and has significantly enhanced my skills and knowledge, especially the good lecturers and the hands-on practicals. My health surveillance, epidemiological analysis, and strategic leadership competencies have improved (Hall and Montgomery, 2023). I have been exposed to various theoretical frameworks and realities of the situations (case studies). My understanding, too, has been deepening, which has helped me have an all-rounded mind, which is necessary for public health practice.
What I appreciate about these acquired skills is that they aren’t just theoretical; they stand to be meaningful contributions that I can bring to the field of public health (García-Martínez et al., 2017). So many possibilities opened up when I learned how to analyse health trends, when I could first create worthwhile interventions, or when I was no longer utterly confused by the convoluted landscape of policies; the experience is just the icing on the nerdy cake. Additionally, these experiences have given me a leg up to be a more effective professional and the creative capacity to initiate a change in a real public health difficulty.
Application of Learning to Practice
I have seamlessly applied what I have learned from the modules into my professional practice in various facets of my work. I have used a solid understanding of health promotion to influence the way I craft community engagement initiatives to reach out to different targeted populations more effectively and with more significant impact (Haldane et al., 2019). My interventions have been made more effective by this heightened respect for the community’s needs, influenced by my studies.
Furthermore, the module’s focus on policy and strategy has influenced my learning and ultimately honed my education, giving me the strategic mindset to approach public health challenges more informally. Therefore, my input to policy development has become much improved in terms of the evidence-based base and strategic practice I use; this integration has worked to support my professional and give me the confidence to feel I can navigate any public health challenge that comes my way due to the practice becoming increasingly diverse.
Future Development Actions
Enhancing Health Surveillance Skills
In-Depth Data Analysis Training: I aim to strengthen health surveillance skills through advanced statistical methods, data visualization, and predictive analytics training.
Application in Real-World Settings: Building on theory, I seek internships or projects for hands-on health surveillance experience, contributing to ongoing efforts.
Continuous Engagement with Contemporary Literature
Weekly Literature Reviews: To stay current, I commit to weekly literature reviews, exploring new research, policy briefs, and reputable journals, fostering continuous learning.
Integration into Professional Discussions: Beyond reviews, I’ll actively share insights in journal clubs, webinars, or forums, engaging with peers and experts.
Specialized Training in Strategic Leadership
Leadership Development Programs: I’ll enrol in healthcare-focused leadership programs covering decision-making, team management, and effective communication for enhanced leadership (Houchens et al., 2021).
Mentorship and Networking: Key to strategic leadership growth is seeking mentorship from experienced leaders and actively participating in networking events and conferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this reflective portfolio encapsulates the profound impact of the “Public Health Foundations” module on my academic and professional journey. It emphasises the paramount relevance of foundational knowledge, the significant development of critical skills, and the unwavering commitment to ongoing professional growth within the dynamic landscape of public health. This module has catalysed personal and professional transformation, laying a robust foundation for a future dedicated to advancing public health outcomes.
Reference list
García-Martínez, P., Lozano-Vidal, R., Herraiz-Ortiz, M. del C. and Collado-Boira, E. (2017). Competencias adquiridas en investigación y Salud Pública en la especialidad de Enfermería Familiar y Comunitaria en la Comunidad Valenciana. Enfermería Clínica, 27(5), pp.303–307. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enfcli.2017.07.007.
Haldane, V., Chuah, F.L.H., Srivastava, A., Singh, S.R., Koh, G.C.H., Seng, C.K. and Legido-Quigley, H. (2019). Community participation in health services development, implementation, and evaluation: A systematic review of empowerment, health, community, and process outcomes. PLOS ONE, [online] 14(5). doi: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0216112.
Hall, E.R. and Montgomery, P. (2023). Communication skills training for improving the communicative abilities of student social workers: A systematic review. Campbell Systematic Reviews, [online] 19(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.1002/cl2.1309.
Houchens, N., L. Sivils, S., Koester, E., Ratz, D., Ridenour, J. and Saint, S. (2021). Fueling leadership in yourself: a leadership development program for all types of health-care workers. Leadership in Health Services, ahead-of-print(ahead-of-print). doi: https://doi.org/10.1108/lhs-06-2020-0037.
Tulchinsky, T.H. (2019). Ethical Issues in Public Health. Case Studies in Public Health, [online] pp.277–316. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-804571-8.00027-5.
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