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What Is a Public Health Analyst and How to Become One


What Does a Public Health Analyst Do?

As a public health analyst, you support the health of the general public by using data to suggest policies to the appropriate legislative or regulatory entities. Public health analysts often work with or for the government to address topics like environmental hazards, infectious diseases, substance abuse, and access to health care. Many public health analysts also communicate with community groups and service providers, produce news releases, help manage projects, and fulfill additional duties and responsibilities as assigned. Most public health analysts work regular hours, but employers may call you in to respond to emerging health threats like outbreaks of infectious diseases.

How to Become a Public Health Analyst

The qualifications needed to pursue a public health analyst career are a bachelor’s degree in public health or health management and experience working for public health organizations. As a public health analyst, your primary responsibilities are to organize and implement health programs and guide policies concerning matters of public health, such as vaccinations and the effects of alcohol and tobacco use. Your job duties include analyzing public health data, developing practical solutions to relevant issues, writing reports, and collaborating with other analysts to devise public health initiatives. This means you should work to develop a deep understanding of both government policies and the needs of the community in which you wish to work. You need excellent teamwork and analytical skills. You can find public health analyst jobs at government agencies and non-governmental organizations.