MPH 8. Apply awareness of cultural values and practices to the design or implementation of public health policies or programs.

For the practice lab in MPH 613, I achieved competency as we reviewed the various cultural beliefs and practices of Happytown and the impact of those cultural practices on the lead poisoning risk of Happytown residents. In the practice lab, I developed the Happytown Lead Poisoning Education and Prevention Program to educate the Happytown residents about the health hazards related to lead exposure and develop primary prevention strategies to reduce the risk of lead poisoning. The program was designed to recognize, understand, respect, and respond to the resident’s cultural beliefs, values, and practices. I learned the importance of cultural competency in developing a public health program.

GEH 2. Evaluate risks posed by environmental health hazards using risk assessment methods.

The practice lab in MPH 632 emphasized the importance of evaluating risks posed by environmental health hazards. I evaluated the risks associated with using and storing large quantities of MIC in the chemical facility of a mid-size city in the Southeast. I assessed the risks by using standard industrial risk assessment methods and developed a list of recommendations to mitigate the risk. The Risk management exercise impacted my learning process by developing an understanding of the risk associated with the use or storing of toxic chemicals. In addition, it engaged my thoughts about the dangerous consequences related to chemical catastrophes.

MPH 18: Select communication strategies for different audiences and sectors.

The practice lab in MPH 632 and MPH 613 was recognized for selecting communication strategies for different audiences and sectors. In MPH 632, I developed a communication plan for communicating risk information related to the accidental release of the toxic chemical. I planned the communication strategies suitable for the specific, targeted audience in a culturally competent way. In MPH 613, I found out the best way to communicate lead poisoning risk to the three different communication strategies for three targeted populations of Happytown. The practice lab helped me recognize and adapt to cultural differences. The labs emphasized the importance of communication in public health practice. I learned to communicate the nature and consequences of environmental and health risks.