Today the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps announced the launch of "Why I Serve in the Public Health Service," a new storytelling campaign that highlights the experiences, motivations, and service of Public Health Service officers across the nation.
"Every officer in the USPHS Commissioned Corps has a journey rooted in a commitment to serve something larger than themselves," said Adm. Brian Christine, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health. "This campaign shines a light on those stories of dedication, compassion, and readiness to protect the health of our nation."
The USPHS Commissioned Corps is one of the eight uniformed services of the United States. Public Health Service officers serve in communities across the country, at the frontlines of emergency response, and within federal agencies that support the nation’s health and safety.
Launching ahead of Memorial Day, USPHS’s campaign recognizes the long tradition of service in the uniformed services of the United States. It lifts up the officers who continue that commitment in communities nationwide.
"This campaign reflects the breadth and depth of service across the USPHS Commissioned Corps," said Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos, HHS Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health and as Director of National Health Communications for the Office of the Surgeon General. "From policy to practice, our officers bring expertise, leadership, and a shared mission to improve health outcomes for all. 'Why I Serve in the Public Health Service' helps connect the public to the people behind that mission."
Through short videos, photos, and personal reflections, this campaign will feature Public Health Service officers from different federal agencies, specialties, and locations sharing what inspired them to serve, what it means to wear the uniform, and the duty of protecting and advancing the nation’s health every day.
"Wearing the uniform of the USPHS Commissioned Corps means being ready to respond wherever and whenever the nation calls," said Rear Adm. Paul Jung, Acting U.S. Deputy Surgeon General. "We are proud to highlight the personal motivations and professional journeys that drive our officers’ commitment each day."
"Why I Serve in the Public Health Service' is about building understanding and inspiring the next generation of public health leaders," said Rear Adm. Richard Schobitz. "By sharing authentic stories from our officers, we hope to increase awareness of the USPHS Commissioned Corps and encourage others to consider a career dedicated to protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the nation."
"Why I Serve in the Public Health Service" will increase awareness of the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, support recruitment, and help the public better understand the essential role that public health service officers play in improving public health.
"Why I Serve in the Public Health Service" will roll out on social media beginning this week, with new stories shared throughout the year on the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps platforms. The campaign will highlight our work in a variety of mission areas, including clinical care, community health, environmental health, emergency response, and federal partnerships such as those with the Indian Health Service, National Park Service, and Department of Homeland Security.
For more information about the USPHS Service Commissioned Corps, visit https://www.usphs.gov/