TFL Regional Manager, (South Central Louisiana) The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL

TFL Regional Manager, (South Central Louisiana) The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL)

 

LPHI Background

The Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI), founded in 1997, is a statewide community-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofit and public health institute committed to ensuring all Louisianans have fair and just opportunities to be healthy and well. Our work applies a holistic approach to the promotion of public health and includes areas of focus like tobacco prevention and control, building healthier communities, community needs assessment, behavioral health, disaster response, and more. To support this work, we build and nurture authentic partnerships with both community members and partners to align action for health.

 

We are a highly experienced team of professionals with different backgrounds and experiences who are dedicated to making a positive, lasting impact on the lives of Louisiana residents. Our employees’ point of view is critical to our success and equity is everyone’s responsibility. Our partners represent a broad range of stakeholders including government, academia, healthcare systems and providers, mental health and social services, community-based organizations, policymakers, business leaders, and community advocates. We work collaboratively to build community capacity to address social constructs (i.e., racism, income inequality, built environment, etc.) that impact health outcomes.

 

Position Summary

LPHI administers tobacco control and prevention programming focused on improving the health of Louisianans by reducing tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke through community capacity-building, promoting cessation services, policy, and advocacy, and identifying and eliminating tobacco-related disparities. A major portion of this programming consists of the Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL), which began in 2003, and is an evidence-based, statewide, comprehensive tobacco control and prevention program funded by the state’s tobacco excise tax through a contract with the Louisiana Cancer Research Center (LCRC). The TFL program is guided and advised by the TFL Steering Committee and Advisory Board.

 

The TFL Regional Manager is responsible for the development, management, coordination, and implementation of the TFL program and initiatives and local policy campaigns in South Central Louisiana (e.g., Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) Region 2, part of Region 3, and Region 9 - Ascension, Iberville, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Point Coupee, West Baton Rouge, West Feliciana, St. James, Assumption, Livingston, and St. Helena Parishes). The TFL Regional Manager will communicate local developments and regional programs to the TFL Sr. Regional Manager, TFL Associate Director, fellow regional staff, and the LPHI team through regularly scheduled meetings and reports.

 

This position is full-time, benefit-eligible, and reports to the TFL Senior Regional Manager. Given the position’s policy campaign efforts, it will require non-traditional hours, including some night and weekend work as well as occasional travel.

LPHI is headquartered in New Orleans, with employees based throughout the state. This position requires residency in Ascension, Iberville, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Point Coupee, West Feliciana, St. James, Assumption or West Baton Rouge parish. West Baton Rouge parish houses part of Baton Rouge. Baton Rouge already has smoke-free bars and gaming facilities; thus, we are looking for candidates with ties and experiences in the other aforementioned parishes (or municipalities within the parishes). Lastly, candidates should have the ability to telework.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

· Master’s degree in public health, Public Administration, Public Policy, Education, or related field required or equivalent combination of experience and education

· 5+ years of relevant professional experience required

· Demonstrated effective professional and interpersonal relationship experiences and principles

· Experience working on health-related community change/advocacy, community outreach, mobilization, and/or capacity-building programs, including tobacco prevention and control, and event planning

· Experience in formal report writing preferred

· Ability to travel up to 60% (during non-COVID times)

 

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Program Management, Planning, and Implementation

· Manage and maintain a regional office to serve as a site for planning and development of TFL and programs and initiatives

· Compile program reports for TFL’s Senior Regional Manager and other staff as requested

· Implement health equity program planning processes and tools specific to

community impact, partnerships, planning, and resource allocation

· Coordinate with TFL’s Senior Regional Manager, Media and Communications, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), and other TFL staff to identify opportunities to collaborate on statewide tobacco prevention and control programs and initiatives

· Manage and maintain a regional budget including travel and other expenditures

 

Partnerships & Collaboration

· Mobilize collaborations and partnerships within and outside of LPHI and TFL

· Serve as public relations and/or media point-of-contact for region working in close partnership with the LPHI Communications staff and strategic partners.

· Develop regional partnerships with related public health organizations, community interest groups, business organizations, and local municipalities on public health programming opportunities.

· Participate and provide technical assistance to regional Healthy Communities Coalition (HCC) with specific attention to tobacco-related goals.

· Provide tobacco control education and outreach to support TFL policy priorities and initiatives.

 

Document and Support Community Mobilization

· Work with TFL staff to keep detailed records of community mobilization and relationship-building efforts in the region.

· Work on health-related community change/advocacy, community outreach, mobilization, and/or capacity-building programs, including tobacco prevention and control, and event planning

Perform other duties as assigned.

 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Strong commitment to LPHI’s Strategic Plan Priorities, Mission, Vision, and Values with ability to demonstrate LPHI’s core competencies.

· Knowledge of the different rural areas of the region with significant knowledge and rural connections

· Extensive knowledge of public health and social issues in Louisiana and experience working on local Louisiana health programs preferred.

· Extensive knowledge of and experience working with some statewide partners, networks, or organizations whose work focuses on policy, system, or environmental changes.

· Strong oral and written communication skills to represent LPHI and TFL to community members, statewide smoking prevention initiatives, state, and local government representatives, including the ability to explain public health priorities and issues in compelling terms and to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

· Ability to collaborate with colleagues and partners.

· Ability to think proactively, function independently, and contribute effectively to team success.

· Exceptional emotional intelligence, including interpersonal skills and experience working with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds.

· Practices a learning orientation.

· Ability to champion and manage change.

· Demonstrated ability to deliver with excellent quality and impact.

· Ability to maintain a highly detail-oriented approach while maintaining an appreciation of the long-term goals and objectives of the program.

· Ability to apply systems thinking and act strategically.

· Ability to approach tasks in a solutions-orientated manner and with an entrepreneurial spirit.

· Demonstrated ability to interact with media, including television, radio, and print.

· Knowledge of the different regional areas of Louisiana with significant knowledge and networks in all regions.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities.

· Ability to work non-traditional hours as needed and travel statewide several times per year.

· Ability to utilize virtual meeting platforms, including but not limited to GoToMeeting, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams to execute community engagement activities.

· Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite

 

Salary/Benefits:

· Minimum starting salary of $55,000.00 dependent on education and experience.

· A competitive benefits package is offered to all LPHI full-time staff, including flexible/remote work policy.

 

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Coordinator, Technical Assistance and Training

Coordinator, Technical Assistance and Training

Position Summary

This position will primarily support LPHI’s growing role in partnership with the National Network of Public Health Institutes (NNPHI) in advancing a regional technical assistance hub that supports public health infrastructure and workforce development. The coordinator will manage all coordination functions for administering scope and budget deliverables, including reporting, communications, project plan and timeline, meeting management and related. The coordinator will support convening functions across technical assistance and training activities, including meeting design and facilitation of meetings with health departments, meeting design and implementation of regional convenings, and related. The coordinator is expected to approach all technical assistance and work for LPHI through an equity lens. This position will report to the project manager for technical assistance projects.

 

A successful candidate will thrive in a team environment, can proactively anticipate, and manage challenges, be a self-starter with strong abilities to manage multiple responsibilities and prioritize appropriately. Day-to-day responsibilities may include managing schedules and meetings, taking meeting minutes, identifying, and prioritizing items for attention, documentation management, and program activity coordination.

 

LPHI is headquartered in New Orleans, with employees based throughout the state. This position can be either New Orleans-based (office/remote hybrid) or fully remote from anywhere in Louisiana.

 

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in public health, social sciences, OR equivalent combination of education and experience required.

1 – 3 years of relevant professional experience in customer service, administrative support, and/or project coordination.

Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with experience working with individuals and groups of diverse backgrounds.

Ability to think proactively, be a self-starter, and function both independently and as a team.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

 

Program Coordination

Manage and coordinate meetings, trainings, and events using virtual, in-person, or hybrid platforms as required.

Lead coordination activities and support for technical assistance and training projects, including:

Updating project plans, stakeholder matrix, and other project tools.

Developing Communications materials, including e-mails to partners, website updates, promotional products, and more.

Support documentation management efforts by creating document library and file layout. Ensure version control of project and team documents.

Anticipate project support needs, potential roadblocks, and proactively collaborate with team members to ensure tasks are completed.

Proactively communicate and liaise with subject matter experts, funders, consultants, project participants and staff in other LPHI departments to ensure project partners are appropriately informed of project progress, next steps, and expectations.

Participate in organization, department, and project level, trainings and meetings.

 

Event Planning

Manage and coordinate convenings with state and local health departments and national and regional stakeholders including:

Planning event logistics such as location, technology, and meals

Managing registration when needed

Pre and post-event communication with presenters and participants

Develop and disseminate meeting materials, document meeting notes as needed, and assist with post-meeting follow-up.

Maintain up-to-date information about external partners and stakeholders.

 

Administrative Support

Provides support for meetings, including scheduling, minutes, and follow-up. Responds to inquiries. Schedules meetings with internal staff and external partners. Exercises good judgment with respect to priorities and effective use of the team’s time.

Ensures preparedness and follow-through for meetings e.g., obtain and/or develop meeting purpose, objectives, and agendas, list meeting attendees and roles, schedule prep meetings as needed, take notes with action items/next steps including responsible party, and schedule post-meeting debriefs and follow-up to track organization action items, as requested.

Assists manager with timely processing of invoices and other reimbursements.

Develops a deep understanding of the programmatic areas and stakeholders to support administrative improvements.

Assists with preparation, proofreading, and editing of outgoing correspondence.

Maintains files of relevant organizational and programmatic documents. Updates documents, as necessary.

Promotes continuous improvement by developing efficiencies and implementing enhanced processes.

Engages in professional development activities to improve job-related skills and knowledge.

 

Desired Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

Ability to collaborate effectively and build strong, positive relationships with colleagues and partners, both internal and external to LPHI.

Exceptional emotional intelligence, including interpersonal skills and experience working with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds.

Demonstrated ability to contribute to multiple complex projects simultaneously.

Demonstrated learning orientation; ability to learn new subject areas quickly.

Ability to champion and manage change.

Demonstrated ability to deliver with excellent quality and impact.

Ability to apply systems thinking and act strategically.

Ability to model and inspire authentic leadership.

Ability to effectively manage and successfully develop individuals and team.

Commitment to public health and achieving health equity.

Strong organizational skills required.

Editing and revision skills are a plus.

Ability to think proactively and function independently and must be able to work well in a team.

Ability to maintain a highly detail-oriented approach while maintaining an appreciation of the long-term goals and objectives of the project.

Proven and excellent written and oral communication skills.

Ability to utilize virtual meeting platforms, including but not limited to Microsoft Teams and Zoom to participate and coordinate meetings and activities in a virtual environment.

 

Salary/Benefits

Minimum starting salary of $45,000.00 dependent on education and experience.

A competitive benefits package is offered to all LPHI full-time staff.

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Coordinator Supervisor, Bureau of Family Health, Office of Public Health

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Coordinator Supervisor, Bureau of Family Health, Office of Public Health

Position Summary

The Louisiana Office of Public Health (OPH) Bureau of Family Health (BFH) conducts key statewide sentinel surveillance systems and regional-based action processes to monitor and improve the health of all Louisianans. Contracted staff facilitate these processes that contribute to the Louisiana Department of Health’s efforts to improve birth outcomes and reduce injury and violence-related deaths.

The BFH leadership seeks to ensure that these processes are well supported to achieve two overarching aims:

• Provision of critical actionable information about factors that affect adverse birth outcomes and unexpected and preventable deaths.

• Translation of robust data and case review findings into knowledge informing strategic policies and operational practices at the state, regional, community, and healthcare provider levels to improve birth outcomes, health and safety.

Qualifications

· A baccalaureate degree in nursing plus three years of professional-level experience;

- A master's degree in nursing or public health will substitute for one year of the required experience.

· Prior supervisory experience preferred.

· Prior experience in MCH and/or surveillance programs preferred.

· Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.

· Excellent organizational skills.

· Strong computer skills and experience with software applications (including Microsoft Office products).

· Ability to travel and access to reliable transportation.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities for the MCH Coordinator Supervisor

· Supervise, develop, and support the team of Maternal and Child Health Coordinators who conduct activities related to mortality data surveillance. These staff serve as the regional contact for the Office of Public Health BFH’s efforts to monitor and improve the health and safety of all Louisianans.

· Supervise, develop, and support the Pregnancy Associated Mortality Review (PAMR) Coordinator.

· Provide leadership to the team by conducting regular meetings with program staff, facilitating team meetings, identifying relevant training opportunities, and orienting and onboarding new staff.

· Support collection of mortality surveillance data (including fetal, infant, child, maternal and violent deaths) and use of case review findings to inform policies and practices at the state, regional, community, and healthcare provider levels to assess the effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of individual and population‐based services to improve birth outcomes, health, and safety.

· Support BFH and regional surveillance staff's efforts in managing processes to effectively conduct case investigations and data collection to provide critical actionable information about factors that affect adverse birth outcomes and preventable deaths.

· Collaborate with the Injury Prevention Manager on activities funded by CDC’s Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Case Registry grant, including the state Child Death Review Panel.

· Oversee operations of the Pregnancy Associated Mortality Review (PAMR) committee.

· Participate in state-level councils and action bodies, including PAMR, state CDR, and the Perinatal Commission.

· Assess current constellation of participants on state and regional teams and councils; redevelop as needed.

· Develop and maintain robust partnerships with medical providers, Coroners, law enforcement, Department of Children and Family Services, professional associations, and other state-level stakeholders.

· Work closely with BFH Mortality Epidemiology and Communications staff on the development of annual surveillance reports, including PAMR and CDR, and review of other MCH data reports.

· Provide information and support for BFH health communications and public relations activities related to mortality surveillance.

· Participate in surveillance studies and data dissemination including PAMR, CDR, and Sudden Unexplained Infant Deaths and resulting Annual MCH Block Grant reporting on National and State-Negotiated Performance measures.

· Represent the BFH in state and national meetings and networks.

· Participate in BFH emergency response activities as requested.

Salary/Benefits

Starting Salary Range: $56,347 up to $81,370 dependent on education and experience. A competitive benefits package is offered to all LPHI full-time staff, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, employer contribution to 401k retirement plan, generous paid leave and paid parking. Excellent opportunity for professional growth and connection to national networks and resources. BFH benefits include opportunities for professional and leadership development, state-of-the-art onboarding, and mentorship.

Join our dynamic team to make a difference! Please submit cover letter, resume, three references, and salary requirements to: careers@lphi.org Subject line: MCH Coordinator Supervisor, OPH Bureau of Family Health

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Chronic Disease Epidemiologist

Chronic Disease Epidemiologist

The Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Healthcare Access (BCDPHA) is located within the Louisiana Department of Health’s (LDH) Office of Public Health (OPH) and branded Well-Ahead Louisiana. Well-Ahead Louisiana is dedicated to improving the health of Louisiana residents in rural and underserved areas by working proactively to build community health systems’ capacity; providing integrated, efficient, and effective healthcare services; and promoting healthy lifestyles within each community. The Chronic Disease Epidemiologist will lead the surveillance activities for a program area and will report to the Well-Ahead Louisiana Surveillance and Evaluation Division (S&E) Manager. The S&E Division is responsible for the accurate collection, analysis, evaluation, and dissemination of health data and program performance.

The Chronic Disease Epidemiologist will analyze and track data related to the determined program area and able to communicate the results of data analysis to help drive program activities and decision-making. The Chronic Disease Epidemiologist is expected to exemplify Well-Ahead’s Culture of Excellence, Culture of Wellness, vision, mission, values, ground rules, and brand guidelines.

Qualifications

· Master’s Degree in Public Health with a concentration on Epidemiology

· Experience in conducting surveillance activities for public health programs

· Proficient in advanced statistical analysis packages (SAS/R)

· Proficient in geographic mapping software (ArcGIS)

· Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access)

· Experience with graphical software (Tableau)

Desired Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

· Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate data in plain language

· Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well on a team

· Strong attention to detail

· Ability to think proactively and function independently

· Good organization skills with the ability to manage heavy workloads and multiple tasks

· Ability to travel in Louisiana

 

45% Design and Execution of Surveillance System

· Analyze data from surveys such as the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, Youth Risk Behavior Survey, Youth Tobacco Survey, etc. to:

- Surveil the prevalence of chronic disease and associated risk factors

- Identify populations experiencing health disparities in Louisiana to improve health equity

· Use data to help create products (presentations, reports, factsheet, etc.) that clearly communicate data to the intended audience and help drive program activities and decision-making.

· Develop and maintain subject matter expertise in the most current data, trends, and best practices for program area

· Use graphical and mapping software to create visualizations of data for a variety of audiences.

· Respond to internal data requests from the Well-Ahead team and external data requests from a variety of stakeholders to provide data and other information as needed.

· Demonstrate strong commitment to quality improvement cycles of data analysis and data product creation processes.

35% Reporting and Communications

· Manage monthly tracking databases to track program activities, outputs, and outcomes.

· Collaborate with the program evaluator to complete and submit required surveillance and evaluation deliverables such as Annual Performance Reports, Evaluation Reports, etc.

· Assist the Division and/or Grant Manager with the completion of bi-annual grant reporting requirements.

20% Other Duties as Assigned

· Collaborate with partners, external stakeholders, and relevant coalitions on special projects.

· Engage with the Health Education and Community Engagement Division, which is Well-Ahead’s communications team, to create creative, innovative, and accurate ways to illustrate surveillance and evaluation results.

· Provide epidemiologic support for grant applications by:

· Participating in grant planning meetings and calls

· Developing surveillance plans to accompany grant applications

· Assess target populations and health disparities.

· Participate in Surveillance team meetings and Evaluation/Epidemiology work group meetings

· Engage in special projects conducted by the Epidemiology team.

· Engage in professional development opportunities when available

· Review and disseminate surveillance and evaluation findings through peer-reviewed journal publications or conference presentations at national public health conferences.

· Cross-train with the other epidemiologists on the team to assist and provide coverage when necessary to help build a team environment

· Travel in and out of state as necessary to fulfill job duties and support program deliverables, including but not limited to conferences, seminars, meetings, summits, training, etc.

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Public Health Epidemiologist, SEET, Office of Public Health

Public Health Epidemiologist, SEET, Office of Public Health

Position Summary

The Section of Environmental Epidemiology and Toxicology (SEET), within the Office of Public Health, Center of Community and Preventive Health, Bureau of Infectious Diseases, investigates the health effects of chemical exposures in populations. The purpose of the Louisiana Healthy Homes and Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (LHHCLPPP) is to eliminate childhood lead poisoning in Louisiana through identification and management of elevated blood lead levels in children and removal of lead sources in the environment as a means of prevention.

Minimum Qualifications

  • A master's degree in epidemiology or a related field.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Clean, modify, process, and output data (CSV, Excel) preferably in SAS;

 

  • Develop reports as needed by LHHCLPPP staff;

 

  • Understand database schemas and tables to perform and develop queries in SQL Server Management Studio;

 

  • Recognize and adopt best practices in reporting and analysis: data integrity, test design analysis, validation, and documentation;

 

  • Perform data linkages with housing, Medicaid, and other data systems;

 

  • Assist in identifying issues related to data quality, data sources, and data processing;

 

  • Troubleshoot problems related to reporting of lead data;

 

  • Conduct epidemiological analysis of data;

 

  • Conduct presentations pertaining to the program’s data to community and professional groups;

 

  • Participate in internal and external team meetings and assist with program reporting;

 

  • Obtain continuing education through personal study, training videos and speaker presentations;

 

  • Other duties as assigned.

 

 

Salary/Benefits

  • The salary is dependent on education and experience, but the approximate range is $45,000-$60,000.

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Environmental Health Scientist, SEET

Environmental Health Scientist, SEET, Office of Public Health

Position Summary

The Section of Environmental Epidemiology and Toxicology (SEET), within the Office of Public Health, Center of Community and Preventive Health, Bureau of Infectious Diseases, investigates the health effects of chemical exposures in populations. The purpose of the Louisiana Healthy Homes and Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (LHHCLPPP) is to eliminate childhood lead poisoning in Louisiana through identification and management of elevated blood lead levels in children and removal of lead sources in the environment as a means of prevention.

Minimum Qualifications

  • A baccalaureate degree in public health, chemistry, geology, geography, biological sciences, computer science, sociology, environmental science, toxicology, engineering, physical science or industrial hygiene.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist the LHHCLPPP Coordinator with the management of follow-up care for children with elevated blood lead levels.

 

  • Assist the LHHCLPPP Program Coordinator with effectively reaching audiences such as pediatricians, nurse practitioners, nurses, community partners and multiple child care serving agencies in order to promote lead testing of children ages 1 and 2;

 

  • Provide lead screening trainings to medical providers, Head Start programs and staff at designated WIC Clinics to promote lead testing of children ages 1 and 2;

 

  • Promote activities, events and publications designed to increase awareness and adoption of lead-safe and healthy home practices;

 

  • Contribute ideas toward the improvement of program policies and procedures to increase awareness and adoption of lead-safe and healthy home practices;

 

  • Collaborate with housing partners and community partnering agencies to refer families for lead hazard assessments;

 

  • Input all activities into case management software;

 

  • Identify new partners and collaborators;

 

  • Participate in internal and external team meetings and assist with program reporting;

 

  • Obtain continuing education through personal study, training videos and speaker presentations.

 

 

Salary/Benefits

  • The salary is dependent on education and experience, but the approximate range is $40,000-$55,000.

 

Please no calls or emails regarding the details of the position. 

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

$200,000 IN HEALTH GRANTS FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES NOW AVAILABLE

$200,000 IN HEALTH GRANTS FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES Now AVAILABLE

Project ASIRT Looks to Reduce Tobacco-Use in Priority Populations

NEW ORLEANS- Addressing Systemic Inequities to Reduce Tobacco (ASIRT), a program of Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI) is seeking to engage local community leaders, organizations, and residents in Black, rural communities (Ferriday, Jonesville, Lake Providence, Tallulah, Bastrop, Delhi, Opelousas, Kentwood, St. Joseph, and Newellton) to work towards addressing systemic inequities that drive high rates of tobacco use. Partnership grants up to $20,000 will be awarded to community-based organizations (CBOs). Rural health clinics (RHCs) and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs)in priority communities can receive up to $10,000.

Tobacco use causes chronic diseases that plague Black, rural communities. The stress of overt and systemic racism and other social inequities exacerbates high rates of tobacco use and health disparities in these communities. Policy changes at local, state, and organizational/institutional levels can impact health outcomes and decrease tobacco usage. Beyond decreasing tobacco use, Project ASIRT aims to support communities in improving the quality of life for their residents through capacity building and resources to achieve other goals unique to each community.

Grants will be used to address systemic inequities that contribute to high rates of tobacco use and other conditions in Black communities, increase the use of cessation programs for those who want to quit smoking, and create and promote prevention strategies for those who are not tobacco users.

Applicants committed to addressing complex social factors, including but not limited to transportation barriers, food insecurity, and digital inequities, within their communities in order to improve health disparities, are encouraged to apply.

Applications are live and can be found at LPHI.org/ASIRT.

Tentative timeline:

  • December 21, 2022: Application Submission Deadline
  • January 25, 2023: Award Notification – Applicants will be notified of funding decisions via email
  • February 15, 2023: Contract Signing Deadline – Grant contracts must be signed and returned to LPHI by this date
  • March 1, 2023: Project Period Begins

Please note: All deadlines and performance period may be adjusted/extended based on the needs of the project.

Project ASIRT is funded through a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: Building Capacity to Reduce Tobacco Inequities in the South and Midwest.

Contact SKennedy@lphi.org.

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Senior Manager

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Senior Manager– Contingent on Funding

Organization Summary

The Louisiana Public Health Institute is a statewide, non-profit organization that has been promoting the health and wellbeing of Louisianans since 1997. LPHI is made up of over 100 employees based throughout the state in all nine Louisiana Department of Health regions. We accomplish our goals alongside our over 500 partner organizations at the local, state, and national levels, which include community-based organizations, foundations, healthcare systems, academic institutions, government agencies, and a cadre of additional stakeholders. Our impact is felt across the state as we leverage our staff expertise and skills in all areas of public health, from advocacy to data and research infrastructure to communications, to ensure that everyone has fair and just opportunities to be healthy and well.

Our Values

 Accountability

We take responsibility and ownership of our work and our impact on one another, our partners, and our communities.

 Community-Centered

We model the mantra “Nothing about us without us” in our work that is anchored in communities.

 Creativity

We approach our work with imagination, ingenuity, and calculated risk-taking as a commitment to progressive transformation.

 Equity

We are deeply committed to centering diversity, inclusion, justice, and fairness in all that we do.

 Excellence

We are dedicated to exceeding expectations and are committed to continual improvement through listening, learning, and leadership.

 Partnership & Trust

We build strong, long-lasting, and committed relationships through collaboration and teamwork, the cornerstones of our efforts to advance health and wellness.

Position Summary

The MEL Senior Manager is integral to advancing the MEL team mission to lead and partner with communities to ensure that community members are thoughtfully engaged and represented in equity centered evaluation and research. The MEL Senior Manager works cross-functionally to support MEL projects from externally funded sources and LPHI lead initiatives. MEL Senior Managers are responsible for designing and leading the efficient and effective execution of project deliverables for a variety of assigned projects, in a culturally responsible and responsive manner. The MEL Senior Manager will provide supervision to MEL Coordinators and Senior Coordinators. MEL Senior Manager will work closely with other MEL team members, LPHI program staff, external partners, and community members to design project evaluation activities and meet assigned project objectives. These activities include but are not limited to the development of evaluation plans, recruitment strategies, creating data collection tools, and analysis plans. MEL Senior Managers also support LPHI in the strategic advancement of its four priority areas:  Racial Justice and Health Equity; Partnerships and Collaboration; A Healthier Louisiana; A Thriving Organization. The MEL Senior Manager reports to the MEL Director.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in social sciences, public health, or related field required or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years’ professional experience working in monitoring, evaluation and learning and/or research.
  • Knowledge of quantitative and/or qualitative evaluation and research methods.
  • Experience designing and implementing public health programs and initiatives.
  • Ability to develop and maintain strong working relationships with LPHI colleagues, partner organizations, stakeholders, and consultants.
  • Strong leadership skills and demonstrated ability to successfully manage teams and projects.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Evaluation Design and Execution

  • Responsible for leading evaluation efforts for a variety of internally and externally funded projects. This leadership includes designing evaluation plans; overseeing the development of logic models, data collection tools, and data analysis plans; establishing program performance monitoring and fidelity assurance systems; ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality work products; and devising corrective action plans, as necessary.
  • Apply strategic thinking and content expertise in health equity, social determinants, and population health to drive LPHI’s assessment and action planning work and development opportunities. Ensure consistent use of prescribed evaluation and research protocols, in alignment with public health best practices and in support of MEL’s mission and vision.
  • Develop, implement, maintain, and monitor written scopes of work and work plans for all assigned projects. Track progress, monitor level of effort, and prepare regular written and verbal updates for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Apply strategic thinking and content expertise in health equity, social determinants, and population health to drive LPHI’s assessment and action planning work and development opportunities.
  • Oversee continuous quality assurance and improvement strategies for assigned projects.
  • Engage partners, solicit partner feedback, and facilitate strategic planning and decision-making across partners and internal teams to drive towards excellence in implementation and exploration of new opportunities.
  • Assess and strategically respond to internal and external stakeholders’ assessment-related needs and assets to ensure successful implementation of assigned programs.
  • Assess trends in public health, health equity, and social determinants to inform decisions regarding assessment scopes of work, partnerships, and development opportunities.

Management and Leadership

  • Oversee and manage contracts and subcontracts, project budgets, and project staffing and invoicing.
  • Lead, coach, and supervise team members and consultants on assigned projects, using evaluation data for decision-making.
  • Support grant and program development, including but not limited to proposal or application writing, as well as grant and programmatic research on evidence-informed and/or innovative funding opportunities.
  • Proactively support and/or lead overall organizational operation advancement efforts.

 Additional Responsibilities

  • Attend and actively participate in MEL team and LPHI-wide meetings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to demonstrate LPHI's Core Competencies
  • Experience with qualitative and/or mixed-methods research.
  • Proficiency and understanding in the use of data collection and analytics software and tools, such as ArcGIS, Stata, R, Tableau, Dedoose, Red Cap, and beyond.

Salary/Benefits

  • Minimum starting salary of $65,000.00 dependent on education and experience.
  • A competitive benefits package is offered to all LPHI full-time staff.

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Coordinator

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Coordinator – Contingent upon Funding

 Organization Summary

The Louisiana Public Health Institute is a statewide, non-profit organization that has been promoting the health and wellbeing of Louisianans since 1997. LPHI is made up of over 100 employees based throughout the state in all nine Louisiana Department of Health regions. We accomplish our goals alongside our over 500 partner organizations at the local, state, and national levels, which include community-based organizations, foundations, healthcare systems, academic institutions, government agencies, and a cadre of additional stakeholders. Our impact is felt across the state as we leverage our staff expertise and skills in all areas of public health, from advocacy to data and research infrastructure to communications, to ensure that everyone has fair and just opportunities to be healthy and well.

Our Values

 Accountability

We take responsibility and ownership of our work and our impact on one another, our partners, and our communities.

 Community-Centered

We model the mantra “Nothing about us without us” in our work that is anchored in communities.

 Creativity

We approach our work with imagination, ingenuity, and calculated risk-taking as a commitment to progressive transformation.

 Equity

We are deeply committed to centering diversity, inclusion, justice, and fairness in all that we do.

 Excellence

We are dedicated to exceeding expectations and are committed to continual improvement through listening, learning, and leadership.

 Partnership & Trust

We build strong, long-lasting, and committed relationships through collaboration and teamwork, the cornerstones of our efforts to advance health and wellness.

Position Summary

The MEL Coordinator is integral to advancing the MEL team mission to lead and partner with communities to ensure that community members are thoughtfully engaged and represented in equity centered evaluation and research. MEL Coordinators are responsible for coordinating the efficient and effective execution of deliverables for a variety of assigned projects, in a culturally responsible and responsive manner. The MEL Coordinator will work cross-functionally to support MEL projects from externally funded sources and LPHI lead initiatives. MEL Coordinators will work closely with other MEL team members, LPHI program staff, external partners, and community members to coordinate project activities and meet assigned project objectives. The MEL Coordinator will also support LPHI in the strategic advancement of its four priority areas: Racial Justice and Health Equity; Partnerships and Collaboration; A Healthier Louisiana; and A Thriving Organization. The MEL Coordinator reports to the MEL Manager or Senior Manager position.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in public health, social sciences, or related field required or equivalent experience
  • At least 1 year of previous professional experience
  • Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively and innovatively communicate evaluation and research results to both general and targeted audiences.
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with experience working with individuals and groups of diverse backgrounds.
  • Ability to think proactively, be a self-starter, and function both independently and as a team.
  • Strong organization and project management skills with the ability to manage heavy workloads and multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Ability for occasional travel, which may be required.

 Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of monitoring and evaluation projects

  • Efficiently and effectively coordinate communication between MEL and its various stakeholders to support the timely achievement of project deliverables.
  • Assist in the development of project work plans and evaluation strategies.
  • Design and maintain tracking systems for project deliverables.
  • Conduct basic analyses of qualitative and quantitative data.
  • Assist with proposal development and acquisition of funding.
  • Coordinate meeting logistics, prepare agendas, and take minutes.
  • Organize and maintain project files.

Assist in reporting and product development activities

  • Coordinate and support qualitative and quantitative data collection.
  • Ensure consistent use of prescribed evaluation and research protocols, in alignment with public health best practices and support of MEL’s mission and vision.
  • Support the creation of Institutional Review Board forms and submissions.
  • Responsible for data management of various projects. This includes data entry, data cleaning, and data management.
  • Translate findings and create data visualization tools, as appropriate, for diverse audiences.
  • Contribute to the development of dissemination materials, including manuscripts, presentations, and grant reports.
  • Meet contract and grant reporting requirements.

Additional responsibilities

  • Participate in workgroups and strategic planning to further the mission and strategic plan of LPHI.
  • Proactively support organizational operations advancement efforts.
  • Attend and actively participate in team and LPHI-wide meetings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

  • Strong commitment to LPHI’s Strategic Plan Priorities, Mission, Vision and Values.
  • Ability to demonstrate LPHI's Core Competencies.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively and build strong, positive relationships with colleagues and partners, both internal and external to LPHI.
  • Exceptional emotional intelligence, including interpersonal skills and experience working with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds
  • Strategic, self-motivated thinker who is always willing to learn something new
  • Strong, demonstrated verbal and written communication skills
  • Data entry, management, and cleaning
  • Ability to manage multiple projects at once/maintaining a heavy workload while responding to deadlines in a timely manner
  • Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills
  • Ability to communicate technical information in a non-technical manner
  • Working knowledge of quantitative and qualitative data collection tools (surveys, interview guides, etc.)
  • Training and/or experience conducting quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access

Salary/Benefits

  • Minimum starting salary of $42,000 dependent on education and experience.
  • A competitive benefits package is offered to all LPHI full-time staff.

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Next Era Grant Applications Now Open

The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living’s Next Era program is now accepting applications. Youth leaders can earn $5,000 in grants to help support tobacco-free messaging among youth. In addition, students receive ongoing training on running campaigns, public speaking, leadership, and other skills to help them to develop professional life skills. Get more information and submit an application at WeAreNextEra.org.

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Strategic Plan

FY2022-2024 Strategic Plan

Overview

It has become clear over the past few years that the public health landscape shifts and changes at an
ever-quickening pace. LPHI’s role is to be both responsive to the immediate public health needs of
Louisiana residents and to create an environment for long-term public health improvements. In order to
do so, LPHI has created a three-year strategic plan to outline and guide the public health impact of the
organization.

Priority Areas and Goals

The guiding elements of the strategic plan include four new Priority Areas: Racial Justice and Health Equity, Partnerships and Collaboration, A Healthier Louisiana, and A Thriving Organization. A Year One Action Plan has been developed for each of the Priority Areas.

Racial Justice and Health Equity

Make LPHI a model for racial justice and health equity.​

Partnerships and Collaboration

Nurture and cultivate partnerships and collaborations to accelerate community impact.

A Healthier
Louisiana

Create a healthier Louisiana by applying our expertise, assets, and innovation.

A Thriving Organization

Build a thriving learning organization that embodies adaptability, equity, and lays a strong foundation for excellence. ​

Highlights

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused all of us to think more broadly about the health of the nation, particularly the most vulnerable among us. LPHI is uniquely positioned to effectuate change in the health of Louisiana residents. Strategic planning ensures a clear and deliberate focus in priority areas that are measurable and that demonstrate the impact we can make in our communities as we work collectively with our partners.”

- Kathleen B. Kennedy, Pharm.D., Immediate Past Board Chair, Louisiana Public Health Institute Board of Directors

LPHI Releases 2021 Survey Results on Youth and Young Adult Health in Shreveport

(April 5, 2022) The Louisiana Public Health Institute’s (LPHI) Geaux Talk program released a report titled Youth and Young Adult Health in Shreveport, Louisiana: 2021 Survey Results that outlines the state of health for Shreveport youth and young adults ages 15-24. Overall, survey respondents indicated that mental and sexual health are the biggest concern in the region. The report also looked at additional topics including violence, academic performance, emotional abuse and neglect, bullying, substance use, suicide, nutrition/obesity, and more.  

 

In conjunction with the release of the report, Geaux Talk hosted an art contest asking Shreveport youth to submit pieces of art that demonstrate what health means to them. Submissions answered the question: “What is the greatest health issue facing young people today?” The third-place winner was Zara Linnear who submitted a piece called Behind Closed Depressed Doors. Jade Burris was second with a piece called Duality. First place went to Julianna Goutherie for her piece called I want to, but I’m not Allowed. 

 

“Young people in the Shreveport region deserve access to quality and comprehensive health services and education,” said Kristie Bardell, managing director at LPHI. “This report helped us identify the existing resources, gaps in services, major health concerns for this age group, the challenges in addressing health outcomes, and the opportunities for improving the overall health.” 

 

The assessment, which used a mixed-methods approach to gather community input, was conducted amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated underlying mental health concerns and the effects of trauma on the mental well-being of young people. Mental health was mentioned as a top concern by every stakeholder type. Young people felt overwhelmingly as though there are not enough resources to support mental health and that there were few places to turn for services. Stigma also plays a large role in preventing youth from accessing services and information for both mental and sexual health. 

 

Regarding sexual health, youth focus group participants, CBOs, and health service providers, in particular, felt that sexual health remained a taboo topic in the area and that there was a lack of sex education and resources. Between 2016 and 2018, young people under the age of 24 accounted for 71% of chlamydia diagnoses and 62% of gonorrhea diagnoses in the Shreveport area. The Louisiana Department of Health Public Health Region 7, where Caddo Parish is located, had the third-highest number and rate of chlamydia and gonorrhea diagnoses in Louisiana. 

 

“Improving and supporting adolescent health requires understanding the social determinants of health for young people in the Caddo Parish area,” said Arien Ragster, Family Health senior program coordinator for LPHI. “By educating youth and young adults on these health factors, as well as programs and resources that are available in the community, we can begin to address some of these issues and improve adolescent health.” 

 

Despite challenges, participants identified many opportunities for advancing the health of young people in the region. These include advancing technology, building community support and trust, and engaging parents. Each system plays a unique and integral role in working together to meet the needs of young people in the community. Those interested in joining a coalition to support this work should visit GeauxTalk.org and enter an email address in the “Get Involved” section on the homepage.  

 

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Tobacco-Free Living (TFL) characterizes diversity as representing the differences and similarities of all of us that include, for example, individual characteristics (e.g., disability, age, education level, poverty status, rural/urban setting, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation), values, beliefs, experiences and backgrounds. TFL characterizes inclusion as creating a work environment and programming in which all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully as their authentic self to TFL’s mission.

The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living and Well-Ahead Announce New Tobacco Data

January 12, 2022 – Today, The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL) and Well-Ahead Louisiana released the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data on adult tobacco use in Louisiana.

From 2019 to 2020, the percentage of Louisiana adults who smoke fell from 21.9 percent to 18.3 percent, a nearly four percent drop. Data shows the largest decreases in Louisiana adult smokers without a high school diploma (40.6 percent in 2019, 34.8 percent in 2020), in households earning below $50,000 (28.3 percent in 2019, 23.7 percent in 2020), in households earning below $15,000 (41.1 percent in 2019, 30.2 percent in 2020), Black men (28.1 percent in 2019, 21.4 percent in 2020), Black women (16.9 percent in 2019, 10.9 percent in 2020), and members of the LGBTQ+ community (28.7 percent in 2019, 23.0 percent in 2020). Additional data can be found here under the “Priority Populations” section.

“We are cautiously optimistic about the 2020 BRFSS data showing a decrease in the number of Louisiana adults who smoke,” said Dr. Earl Benjamin-Robinson, director of TFL. “We know that 2020 was an extremely stressful year for everyone and that cigarette sales increased but more information is needed to assess how stressors like the COVID pandemic and past hurricanes have affected Louisiana’s smoking prevalence. We continue to provide support services for those who want to quit and advocating for smoke-free ordinances to protect Louisianans from secondhand smoke.”

The BRFSS is a collaborative project between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and US states and territories. The survey is conducted each year via telephone and is designed to collect data on health-related risk behaviors, chronic health conditions, and use of preventive services.

“We applaud anyone who wants to quit tobacco in the new year, because we know it’s not easy, but we also know the health benefits are worth it,” said Jabari Sullen, Division Manager, Tobacco Control and Health Policy of Well-Ahead Louisiana, the chronic disease prevention and healthcare access arm of the Louisiana Department of Health. “By taking advantage of Quit With Us, Louisiana’s quit coaches and nicotine replacement therapy, you’ll start off on the right track and have tools to help you quit for good.”

Louisianans interested in quitting tobacco can visit www.QuitWithUsLa.org or call 1-800-Quit-Now to connect with a quit coach and create a personalized Quit Plan. Coaches are available 24/7, seven days a week. Quit With Us, Louisiana also provides counseling services over the phone, via text, through an app, or on the website chatbox. Quit Coaches can also provide cessation medication and make recommendations on what prescription medications participants can review with their doctor. Young adults and individuals seeking to quit vaping can get vaping-specific cessation assistance by texting “VAPEFREE” to 873373.

Delta Center Community of Practice Application Process Now Open

LPHI, in partnership with the Community Health Center Association of Mississippi, Louisiana Primary Care Association, and Mississippi Association of Community Mental Health Centers, is pleased to announce that we will be facilitating a community of practice (CoP) in 2022 that will focus on equitable access to telehealth services. The CoP will engage behavioral health and primary care organizations in Louisiana and Mississippi that collaborate with each other to provide care to underserved communities. This CoP is part of a larger initiative – The Delta Center: Advancing Equitable Care and Payment for Telehealth in Louisiana and Mississippi.

As temporary measures to enable telehealth during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency are in transition at the national and state levels, healthcare organizations must now determine if and how they will continue to use telehealth to reach and improve the health outcomes of the people they serve. The CoP is designed for organizations interested in growing and sustaining telehealth services in a way that complements in-person care delivery and provides equitable access.

Instructions on how to apply can be found in the “How to Apply” section below.

Learning Objectives

  • Participants will increase their understanding of health equity, including how to apply the concept to their work and how health equity is related to health outcomes.
  • Participants will increase the capacity of their organizations to effectively deliver telehealth beyond the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency period.
  • Participants will improve access to telehealth services in an equitable manner that is aligned with the needs and circumstances of the population they serve.

Participant Organizations

CoP participants must apply as a team made up of one primary care organization and one behavioral health organization that serve the same community. There will be a total of 8 participant organizations in 4 teams: 2 in LA and 2 in MS.

This opportunity is open to organizations that have a federal or state designation that identifies them as a provider that serves underserved communities as part of the healthcare safety net. Designations may include but are not limited to Federally Qualified Health Center, Rural Health Clinic, Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, Community Mental Health Center, Human Services Authority, and Local Governing Entity.

Time Commitment and Key Activities

The CoP will take place for 1 year, from March 2022 through February 2023.

We recommend that each organization identifies 1 – 2 staff members as “champions” to consistently participate in all CoP activities and lead dissemination and implementation efforts at their organizations. Other staff members may be engaged as needed for sessions and activities that apply to their specific area of work.

Anticipated time commitment (per person):  34 hours over one year

  • 4 learning sessions: 90 minutes each (6 hours)
  • 4 individual check-ins: 30 min each (2 hours)
  • Complete 2 assessments: 1 hour each (2 hours)
  • Dissemination and implementation within their organization: 2 hours/month (24 hours)

Stipend

Each participant organization within the team will receive a stipend of up to $5,000 for the one-year community of practice.

How to Apply

The application template is available for download here. Instructions for submitting a completed application are included in the downloadable template.

An informational webinar about this opportunity was held on 1/21/22. A recording of the webinar is available here.

Applications will be accepted through 2/21/22. Notices of acceptance will be sent in March.

Public Health Epidemiologist (Morbidity and Mortality), Bureau of Family Health, Office of Public Health

Public Health Epidemiologist (Morbidity and Mortality), Bureau of Family Health, Office of Public Health  

Position Summary

This position serves Louisiana’s Office of Public Health within the Bureau of Family Health (BFH). This position performs data collection, analysis, and evaluation work involving the planning, gathering, analysis and reporting of statistical data associated with Maternal and Child Health (MCH) and violence and injury surveillance outcomes, and grants administration associated with the Bureau of Family Health’s morbidity and mortality surveillance efforts.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Master’s Degree in Public Health, Concentration in Epidemiology plus a minimum of 2 years professional experience
  • Prior program management experience preferred
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, especially oral communication skills
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Intermediate to advanced SAS, R or STATA, LinkPro, GIS software preferred with minimum 9 credit hours in epidemiology and/or biostatistics

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Coordinates the overall collection of morbidity and mortality surveillance data for MCH mortality reviews, and Violent death prevention initiatives.  Duties include case identification; ensuring data are abstracted and entered into the appropriate case review electronic systems in accordance with CDC standards; performing or overseeing data entry, data linkage, performing data editing/cleaning, analyses, and evaluation.
  • Participates in the analysis and dissemination of Louisiana morbidity and mortality data.  Duties include the following: Participates with the Louisiana Violent Death Reporting System (LA-VDRS) advisory workgroup; works with SAS statistical software to obtain frequencies through univariate and bivariate analyses of data; provide all data and develops and manages development and dissemination of reports.
  • Supports case review efforts through the provision of valid, reliable data.
  • Develops and implements morbidity and mortality surveillance grant evaluative methods.
  • Participates in surveillance analyses resulting in data dissemination products and abstract preparation and submission.
  • Supervises morbidity and mortality epidemiology staff and LA-VDRS Abstractors.
  • Assists the Principal Investigators/Project Directors with management of the morbidity and mortality related grants for the BFH.
  • Oversees identification and validation of mortality cases for review processes.
  • Represents the BFH in national, regional and local workgroups.

Salary/Benefits

Salary Range: $50,000 – 60,000 dependent on education and experience. A competitive benefits package is offered to all LPHI full-time staff, including medical, dental and vision insurance, employer contribution to 401k retirement plan, generous paid leave, and paid parking. Excellent opportunity for professional growth and connection to national networks and resources. BFH benefits include opportunities for professional and leadership development, state-of-the-art onboarding, and mentorship.

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

LPHI Outlines Long-Term Public Health Improvements with a New Strategic Plan

December 2, 2021 – The Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI) has proudly served the residents of Louisiana for nearly 25 years. It has become clear over the past few years that the public health landscape shifts and changes at an ever-quickening pace. LPHI’s role is to be both responsive to the immediate public health needs of Louisiana residents and to create an environment for long-term public health improvements. In order to do so, LPHI has created a three-year strategic plan to outline and guide the public health impact of the organization.

“I want Louisiana to be the healthiest state in the Nation,” said LPHI CEO Shelina Davis. “I know that is not something that will happen quickly, but it is something that we all must begin to strive for. It is through that lens that we acknowledge the critical need for having a solid strategic plan to guide our path forward.”

The guiding elements of the strategic plan include an updated mission statement, vision statement, and set of values, along with four new Priority Areas: Racial Justice and Health Equity, Partnerships and Collaboration, A Healthier Louisiana, and A Thriving Organization.

“For years, LPHI has spoken out about the many factors that contribute to health, with a strong focus on the negative impacts of racism and inequity,” said Linda Usdin, LPHI board chair. “Undergoing the strategic planning process at this moment ensures that we are resolute in addressing the challenges we face and increase the impact of public health practices and guidelines.”

By implementing this plan, LPHI will be able to increase the impact of public health practices and guidelines and grow the scope and number of organizational partners. Each priority area is supported by a goal that provides overall direction. A Year One Action Plan has been developed for each of the priority areas, which highlights specific strategies that LPHI is committed to achieving in the first year of the plan’s implementation. The action plan will be updated annually to provide direction for the year.

Tulane University GRID Toolkit

Tulane University and LPHI partnered with stakeholders to address engagement in research on COVID-19 among communities who have been historically underrepresented as researchers and participants. The project introduced tools and mindsets designed to address disparities in health research by engaging in equity-centered work. Through a process of co-design, the team produced a toolkit to guide investigators and stakeholders in identifying research topics that are important to people on health issues that significantly impact their lives. The work on this equity-centered design toolkit was funded by a Eugene Washington Engagement Award from the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI).

The full toolkit is available here.

Senior Public Health Epidemiologist, Bureau of Family Health, Office of Public Health

Senior Public Health Epidemiologist, Bureau of Family Health, Office of Public Health

Position Summary

This position serves Louisiana’s Office of Public Health within the Bureau of Family Health (BFH). Join the team to make a difference, protecting and promoting health of all Louisianans. This position performs data collection, analysis, and evaluation work involving the planning, gathering, analysis and reporting of statistical data associated with Maternal and Child Health (MCH) and violence and injury surveillance outcomes.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Master’s Degree in Epidemiology or Biostatistics with a minimum of 4 years of advanced analytic experience; PhD in Epidemiology or Biostatistics with MCH experience preferred
  • Management and supervision
  • Familiarity working with administrative claims and registry data and ICD 9 and ICD 10-CM codes
  • Experience performing complex analyses with large epidemiologic data systems
  • Experience with advanced statistical analysis packages (SAS and SAS-callable SUDAAN preferred and/or STATA and R)
  • Experience with authorship and submission of manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Data Management and Analytics

  • Analyze and report MCH, violence, and injury indicators
  • Design, develop and oversee implementation of program evaluation efforts for MCH-related and injury and violence prevention programs
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of sampling method, study design, data linkage, statistical analysis techniques, and program evaluation
  • Coordinate the overall collection of Louisiana MCH indicators.  Duties include ensuring data are analyzed and reported in a timely manner; performing or overseeing some data entry; and performing data editing, analyses, and evaluation in support of partner interventions
  • Assist in development of data management and standards protocols
  • Design and implement quality review of relevant surveillance systems, and identify opportunities for improvement/efficiencies in data management and reporting; Develop recommendations to enhance data capacity and/or analytic skill set of the BFH

Mentorship and Supervision

  • Provide senior epidemiologic support by conducting and/or supervising analyses of MCH-related and injury and violence surveillance data; validate staff data projects for content and accuracy; Develop and provide epidemiologic/statistical training plan.

Data Dissemination

  • Serve as a Subject Matter Expert in MCH, injury, morbidity, and mortality surveillance.
  • Demonstrate expertise in appropriate interpretation and translation of epidemiologic results; Provide data and otherwise assist in the development and dissemination of Louisiana surveillance or programmatic reports, data and policy briefs, newsletters, and other communications efforts; Disseminate analytic findings through submission of peer reviewed journal articles.

Desired Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

  • Advanced knowledge of sampling methods, study designs and analysis methods;
  • Advanced skills in the principles and practice of epidemiology and/or biostatistics, including multivariable and multilevel data analyses;
  • Knowledge of program monitoring and evaluation methods;
  • Ability to determine the applicability of epidemiologic data, draw appropriate conclusions, and make recommendations from analytic results;
  • Ability to write clear and appropriate statistical and epidemiological reports for scientific and lay audiences; strong technical writing skills; and prior peer-reviewed publication experience;

Salary/Benefits

Salary Range: $62,000 – 74,000 dependent on education and experience. A competitive benefits package is offered to all LPHI full-time staff, including medical, dental and vision insurance, employer contribution to 401k retirement plan, generous paid leave, and paid parking. Excellent opportunity for professional growth and connection to national networks and resources. BFH benefits include opportunities for professional and leadership development, state-of-the-art onboarding, and mentorship.

Apply

Equal Opportunity Employer

Live Vape Free gives teens new tool to quit vaping

November 9, 2021 – The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL) and Well-Ahead Louisiana are calling on youth to quit vaping and offering them a new tool to help.

Live Vape Free is a free texting program for Louisiana teens ages 13 to 17 who use e-cigarettes or vapes. The interactive program teaches skills that teens can use to quit vaping for good.

“We’ve learned that rates of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents have doubled since the start of the pandemic[i],” said Dr. Earl Benjamin-Robinson, director of TFL. “While teens may be turning to vapes to help with their mental state, another study has shown that sustained use of e-cigarettes actually increases the rates of depressive symptoms in youth[ii].”

“This, along with the physical harm vaping causes, makes it more important than ever that teens know about the cessation resources available to them.”

The rate of e-cigarette use among Louisiana teens has tripled since 2015, according to the Louisiana Youth Tobacco Survey.[iii] Live Vape Free is part of cessation services offered through the Louisiana Tobacco Quitline.

“Teenagers always seem to be on their phones, so we wanted to offer this support to meet them where they are,” explained Well-Ahead Louisiana Director Melissa Martin. “Quitting a tobacco product isn’t easy for anyone, but we must provide the tools to help our residents – even our youth – try.”

The support provided through Live Vape Free is text-message based and offers interactive coaching specifically geared towards teens. Participants have access to a Quit Coach at any time who can provide additional education, tools, and guidance to help them along their quit journey. Features include videos, quizzes, self-assessments, podcasts, and help for a teen to find their “why.”

Any teen in Louisiana ages 13 to 17 can enroll by texting “VAPEFREE” to 873373 and answering a few quick questions to get started.

The Louisiana Tobacco Quitline is a 24-hour, confidential, free tobacco cessation helpline that links people who are ready to quit using tobacco with trained tobacco cessation specialists who help create an individualized plan to quit. The Quitline can provide Louisiana residents free counseling and nicotine replacement therapies to help them quit tobacco for good.

A program of the Louisiana Public Health Institute, TFL engages in local and statewide tobacco control policy efforts that focus on preventing tobacco use, eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke, promoting cessation services, and identifying and eliminating tobacco-related disparities. For more information, visit www.tobaccofreeliving.org.

Well-Ahead Louisiana is the chronic disease prevention and healthcare access arm of the state Department of Health. Well-Ahead connects communities to tools and resources that help improve the health of Louisiana’s residents where they live, work, learn and play. For more information, visit www.wellaheadla.com.

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Geaux Talk Hosts Youth and Young Adult Art Contest in the Shreveport Area

(October 27, 2021) – Geaux Talk, a program of the Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI), is focused on increasing access to health services and information for young people. In advance of releasing a report looking at the strengths, challenges, and opportunities impacting youth and young adult health in the Shreveport area, youth between the ages of 13 and 21 are invited to submit pieces of art that demonstrate what health means to them. Submissions should answer the question: “What is the greatest health issue facing young people today?”

To enter, send a registration form and a quality scan or a digital photograph (PDF/JPG files only) of visual art to geauxtalk@lphi.org. First place will win $400, second place will win $200, and third place will receive $100.

WHAT:
Geaux Talk (and Create!) About Your Health Art Contest

WHEN:
December 10, 2021
5 p.m.
Submissions due

First week in January
Winners announced

WHO:
Shreveport area residents
Ages 13-21

TFL Issues Statement on FDA Approval of E-Cigarette Device

The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco Free Living (TFL) and the Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI) are disheartened by the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) decision to approve the electronic cigarette created by tobacco company R.J. Reynolds. While we appreciate that the FDA is continuing to ensure all new tobacco products undergo the agency’s robust, scientific premarket evaluation, the fact that an e-cigarette product gained approval is concerning.

E-cigarettes have gained popularity with youth since their inception, creating a new generation of smokers who would not have previously used commercial tobacco. Previous data indicates e-cigarettes is the most common tobacco product used among all middle and high school students across most racial and ethnic groups; three in 10 LGBTQ+ youth currently vape with more than half of them having tried e-cigarettes.

Another concerning factor is that the 2021 National Youth Tobacco Survey found that approximately 10 percent of high school students who used vape products identified the R.J. Reynold product as the brand they use. With limited access to other e-cigarette products, we worry that young smokers will specifically seek out this product. We urge the FDA to monitor the sales of this product and continue the ban on all flavored tobacco products to prevent the initiation of tobacco use among young people.

While the product has been promoted as a cessation device, it has not been approved by the FDA for cessation. TFL offers cessation support for those interested in starting their quit journey through the Quit With Us, LA program. Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-800-Quit-Now (1-800-784-8669) or visiting QuitWithUsLA.org.

Earl N. Benjamin-Robinson, DrHSc, CPH
Director
Tobacco Control & Prevention and
Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco Free Living

Next Era Program Offering Community Advocacy Grants to Youth Organizations and Schools

September 23, 2021 –The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living’s youth initiative program, Next Era, is currently offering youth organizations and schools in Louisiana the opportunity to apply for a Community Advocacy Grant of up to $3,500. The submission deadline is Friday, October 8 at 4 p.m. The Scope of Work and application for the grant is available on the Next Era Website.

Next Era is a youth movement empowering high school teens to work toward meaningful change in their communities. Next Era currently focuses on organizations/schools that work with high school-aged teens (grades 9th-12th). The overall goal of the Next Era program is to reduce youth tobacco use rates in Louisiana.

“The Next Era students are offered opportunities to advocate for healthy change in their schools and local communities,” said Kenyatta Royal, youth programs and policy manager for The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco Free Living. “Students meet with elected officials, support policy change, and work with other students throughout the state, to create everlasting change in tobacco use.”

In addition to helping create a healthier Louisiana, Next Era students develop leadership, public speaking, professionalism, teamwork, and project management skills, that will help them build in school and throughout their futures after high school. This award provides support for (but not limited to) training, orientation, community presentations, youth education work, a Take Down Tobacco Day event, various community events, media campaigns, compensating Youth Advisory Board Members.

Applications must be completed by an Adult Coordinator. The Adult Coordinator will be responsible for facilitating the formation of a Next Era team. Next Era teams consist of youth 14-18 years old.

Shreveport Comprehensive Smoke-Free Ordinance Goes Into Effect August 1

(July 30, 2021) – The Shreveport Smoke-free Air Act, a smoke-free ordinance designed to protect the health of the City’s 193,785 residents, will go into effect for bars and gaming facilities on Sunday, August 1, 2021. Shreveport is the 30th municipality in Louisiana to implement a smoke-free ordinance. The implementation of this ordinance means that 30 percent of Louisiana’s total population is being protected from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

The ordinance was originally passed in July 2020 to be implemented in August 2020, but implementation was later delayed until August 2021. In July 2021, an amendment was introduced to exclude gaming facilities from the ordinance. The amendment was ultimately tabled and the Smoke-free Air Act will include both bars and gaming facilities when it goes into effect over the weekend.

“The amount of support this ordinance received from community members shows that protecting bar and gaming service industry professionals, our community, and visitors from the dangers of secondhand smoke is the right step for Shreveport,” said Feamula Bradley, regional manager for the Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL). “Putting our community’s health first, especially as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, means a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone that will ultimately save lives.”

“We applaud the City of Shreveport on this smoke-free effort, as it sets a worthy precedent for all communities to recognize and follow,” said Earl Benjamin-Robinson, director of TFL. “We look forward to working with these organizations on a smooth implementation of the smoke-free ordinance and appreciate the support we have received from the community and the City Council.”

TFL is providing materials to assist with the implementation of the Shreveport Smoke-free Air Act. These materials include a brochure that details what the new ordinance does and does not do, best practices, steps for implementation, and a “No Smoking” sign to hang in establishments. Hard copies of these materials have been mailed to local businesses and digital versions are available at SmokefreeShreveport.org.

For more information on the growing movement to protect all Louisiana employees from secondhand smoke, visit www.HealthierAirForAll.org.

Individuals interested in quitting tobacco products can visit www.QuitWithUsLa.org or call       1-800-Quit-Now.

LPHI Named 2021 Top Workplace by The Times-Picayune and The New Orleans Advocate

The Louisiana Public Health Institute is honored to be selected as a Greater New Orleans Top Workplace for 2021 by The Times-Picayune and The New Orleans Advocate.

Our mission is to lead and partner with communities to ensure that everyone has fair and just opportunities to be healthy and well. We know that a healthy Louisiana begins with us and our work starts with a healthy and engaged team. We actively work to create an environment where our employees feel supported, valued, and connected to the work, both professionally and personally.

The Top Workplace selections are based on feedback given during an online employee engagement survey conducted by Energage, a third-party company that conducts a quantitative and qualitative assessment of nominated companies. Ninety-four percent of LPHI’s employees completed the survey.