Elevating Public Health Nurse Leaders as Chief Health Strategists

Abstract

Although public health has evolved by integrating social determinants of health with community-based strategies, the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic exposed gaps in our health systems. Elevating public health nurses into leadership roles is essential for advancing public health and meeting the demands of today’s health landscape. As chief health strategists, public health nurses bring a uniquely critical perspective, with the ability to establish cross-sector partnerships, coordinate care delivery systems, and design innovative models that promote health equity, particularly for marginalized communities. This leadership requires specialized training, mentorship, and a supportive organizational culture.