Episode #399 Interdisciplinary Leadership, With Deanna Wathington, MD, MPH
- Laura Hollabaugh
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
On This Episode Of The Public Health Epidemiology Conversations (PHEC) Podcast
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Huntley interviews Dr. Deanna Wathington, a prominent public health practitioner and president of the American Public Health Association. They discuss Dr. Wathington's unique journey into public health, her focus on maternal and infant health, and her commitment to health equity. The conversation highlights the importance of community health workers, resilience in the public health sector, and the need for continued education and advocacy in the field. Dr. Wathington shares her insights on the interconnectedness of public health disciplines and encourages listeners to engage with the American Public Health Association for networking and professional development.
Meet Dr. Deanna Wathington
Deanna Wathington, MD, MPH, FAAFP serves as president of the American Public Health Association (APHA). She is clinical director at REACHUP, Inc., professor (collaborative appointment) at the University of South Florida (USF) College of Public Health and executive director of the Consortium of African American Public Health Programs. She previously served as founding dean of the Bethune-Cookman University College of Health Sciences, associate dean for Academic and Student Affairs at the USF College of Public Health, associate dean for Academic Enrichment at the USF College of Medicine and as director of the Office of Minority Health at the Florida Department of Health.
Dr. Wathington serves on the APHA Executive Board and ASPPH Workforce Advisory Committee. Previous service includes the Council on Education for Public Health, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Committee on Health and Resilience in the Gulf of Mexico, the National Partnership for Women and Families Listening to Mothers Advisory Group, Community Catalyst’s Hospital Equity and Accountability project and the HHS OMH Southeastern Health Equity Council. Dr. Wathington earned her medical degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – New Jersey Medical School, now known as Rutgers University – New Jersey Medical School; her master of public health from Temple University; and her baccalaureate in zoology and physiology from Rutgers University. She completed residency training in family medicine at JFK Medical Center, New Jersey, and Bayfront Medical Center, Florida.
Dr. Wathington’s work and scholarly efforts have centered on health equity, clinical-community linkages, maternal and child health, equitable community development, and expanding diversity within the health professions. She is co-editor of Black Women and Public Health: Strategies to Name, Locate, and Change Systems of Power and, more recently, co-author of a chapter on perinatal safety and public health in Black Women’s Reproductive Health and Sexuality - A Holistic Public Health Approach. Dr. Wathington has received the distinction of Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, Temple University Gallery of Success Inductee, Association of American Medical Colleges Shoestring Award of Excellence, the Hildrus A. Poindexter Award, and the Florida Outstanding Woman in Public Health Award.
Listen To This Episode Of The Public Health Epidemiology Conversations (PHEC) Podcast
Conversation Highlights
Dr. Wathington emphasizes the importance of being a public health practitioner first.
Community health workers play a crucial role in supporting families.
Health equity has been a long-standing focus in public health.
Resilience is a key trait for public health professionals.
The need for public health services remains constant, regardless of external recognition.
Building trusted relationships within communities is essential for effective public health work.
Education and advocacy are vital for advancing public health initiatives.
Networking through organizations like APHA can enhance professional growth.
The positive impact of public health efforts can benefit all populations.
Engagement in public health is crucial for addressing systemic health disparities.
"Why do we really keep going? I think it's our resolve. It's our strong belief in, and our standing on the truth that what we do really matters. And that's how you push through." - Dr. Deanna Wathington
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