Colleagues and Partners,

As we reflect on 2024, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the remarkable work we have accomplished at MPHI. Our work has always been data-driven, relying on empirical evidence and rigorous research to inform policies and interventions. By analyzing health data and trends, we develop effective strategies that contribute to improvements in health and quality of life. This work helps Michiganders thrive and reach their full health potential.

For more than thirty years, MPHI’s dedication to improving the health of all Michiganders has remained steadfast across shifting cultural and political landscapes and evolving health needs. From expanding broadband access in rural areas to bringing millions of dollars to Michigan to help improve the health of all Michiganders, we recognize the complexity of these challenges. Our role is to partner with others to solve these challenges; whether we provide data, research, and policy guidance or offer technical support. Our work enables leaders to make more informed decisions, and we remain dedicated to this important role.

Public health efforts ensure that where we live, work, play, or pray are settings that allow us to be healthy and vibrant. Effective health initiatives lead to improvements in life expectancy and quality of life. As we move forward, we remain committed to enhancing health for all through collaboration and excellence. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We look forward to ongoing success and the positive impact of our shared work in the year ahead.

Leaning into the Information Age: Enhancing Public Health Efficiency

In the ongoing quest for operations improvements, time studies, and assessments were conducted across the Institute, led by the Financial Services Team. These efforts provided valuable insights into financial support processes, highlighting opportunities for optimization, especially in travel expense reimbursement. In response to this finding, the Center for Technology Solutions (CTS) at MPHI created an Online Travel and Expense Reimbursement (OTER) Application. OTER is a user-friendly platform designed to efficiently manage travel and expenses, resulting in significant cost savings for partners. Its development aimed to enhance efficiency while maintaining rigorous reporting requirements.

In 2023, an internal staff survey was conducted to gather feedback on compensation practices. In 2024, after analyzing the results, the Executive Leadership Team recognized an opportunity to improve the approach to salary distribution across the Institute. The Financial Services Team worked with external consultants to comprehensively review salary data, job roles, and market benchmarks. This review aimed to identify differences, gaps, and areas for improvement. The study results are being analyzed, and new compensation practices are being implemented.

By aligning compensation with market standards and ensuring transparency and fairness, MPHI fosters a motivated and stable workforce. This stability reduces turnover rates and recruitment costs, benefiting partners through consistent and reliable service delivery. In addition, this enhanced resource management minimizes waste and maximizes the impact of public health initiatives, providing better value for partners and more efficient maintenance of MPHI’s rigorous reporting requirements in financial practices, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, as well as with MPHI’s many grants and contracts.

As part of our strategic focus on enhancing internal efficiencies, MPHI is implementing advanced AI resources to streamline operations and improve client engagement. These AI enhancements are designed to automate routine tasks, enhance data analysis, and support informed decision-making across the Institute.

The Information Technology team began with implementing AI resources to enhance internal efficiencies and client engagement. Initial AI training programs, including workshops and webinars, were launched to build foundational knowledge and practical skills. Additional AI workshops will be scheduled in 2025 to best meet the needs of our staff, focusing on automating routine tasks and improving data analysis and decision-making. Notable tools included AI-powered data analytics platforms, natural language processing tools, and machine learning models, especially integrating Microsoft Copilot across the Institute’s Microsoft 365 Suite. Several pilot projects were also initiated to showcase AI’s potential in areas such as predictive analytics in public health, automating workflows, and AI-driven communication tools.

MPHI is NIST compliant and adheres to the NIST 800-53 standards, which include a comprehensive set of security and privacy controls for federal information systems and organizations. MPHI has implemented various controls and procedures to ensure compliance with these standards. Additionally, MPHI regularly updates these policies and procedures to maintain compliance and address any new requirements or changes in operational processes.

MPHI has also achieved SOC2 Type 2 certification. This certification was a significant accomplishment for the Institute, reflecting MPHI’s commitment to comprehensive security and compliance standards. Being SOC2 Type 2 certified demonstrates that MPHI has robust security policies, procedures, and controls to protect sensitive data and ensure the integrity and availability of its systems. Compliance with NIST and SOC2 standards ensures that MPHI employs best practices in cybersecurity, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.
Implementing these rigorous standards improves operational efficiency by streamlining processes and enhancing the overall security posture of the organization.

These benefits contribute to a more secure, reliable, and efficient partnership, ultimately enhancing the value and impact of collaborations with MPHI.

We are proud to have created the Center for Precision Public Health (CPPH). The CPPH is steadfast in its commitment to improving the health and well-being of every individual. Precision public health is about delivering the right intervention at the right time, every time, to the right people. The CPPH will continue the work previously undertaken by MPHI’s Center for Strategic Health Partnerships (CSHP) and the Center for Data Management and Translational Research (CDMTR). CPPH is dedicated to advancing data analytics and evaluation, child and adolescent mental health, education and training, and public health infrastructure. The Center aims to develop new research, support data-driven initiatives, and provide technical assistance to further these efforts.

In 2024, MPHI piloted our first Public Health Fellow Program! We were honored to work with three experienced Public Health professionals for a one-year program that began in the first quarter of 2024. This inaugural class of Public Health Fellows exceeded our expectations. These dynamic and emerging leaders helped support MPHI initiatives, coordinate efforts across centers, and work with industry leaders to develop their skills. Their presence enriched our organizational culture through their unique and valuable perspectives, skills, and presence.

The Public Health Initiative for Resourceful Education (PHIRE) is an MPHI initiative launched in July 2024. The five-week program was designed to inspire and empower high school students to learn about public health and pursue careers in this field. The program included coursework structured by multifaceted topics that allowed students to explore their interests in the field. Experts in public health from MPHI’s staff serve as mentors, allowing students to learn from real public health professionals. Students who completed the program received a $500 stipend, a Public Health Initiative for Resourceful Education Certificate, and a letter of recommendation.

Our commitment to public health remains unwavering. Together, we move forward, creating a healthier future for all.