Dr. Renée Branch Canady, CEO of the MPHI, recently joined the hosts of the New Hampshire Family NOW Podcast in a discussion on public health. The interview took place during the Prevent Child Abuse America’s National Conference and examined the role of public health equity in improving family and children’s health.
“Oftentimes when I think about good health, I don’t think of the clinical, biological, or physiological well-being,” Dr. Canady said. “I think about the broad well-being: educational well-being, relational well-being, employment well-being. It really is about how we structure our lives in this society, where the healthy choice is the easy choice for everyone.”
Dr. Canady explains that the goal of public health is to address the circumstances in which we live and improve the lives of those who are living in vulnerable circumstances, such as inadequate housing or economic situations. All people have the right to thrive and live healthy lives, though many struggle to do so based on circumstances they cannot control. The goal of public health is to minimize these inequities and work toward a society where health is attainable for all.
Dr. Canady asserts that there are many steps that must be taken to achieve equity in the United States. As the use of the word equity continues to grow, she stresses that action must follow. This consists of examining the systems and structures in place within our society that may be hindering different groups from achieving healthy living. Specifically, Dr. Canady advocates for an examination and improvement of the structures that have not fared well for families and children.
“We have the ability to assure that everyone can be their best, most healthy self; free of the scourges of poverty, free of the scourges of racism and discrimination and bias, free of the scourges of gender oppression,” Dr. Canady said.
To listen to the full podcast, visit: NH Family NOW Podcast | NH Children’s Trust (nhchildrenstrust.org)
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