Special Interest Sections are the primary professional units of the Association and conduct activities that promote the mission and fulfill the goals of IPHA. Sections create a variety of opportunities for member involvement, making the IPHA experience richer for those who choose to interact with their Sections.
IPHA has five Sections that represent major public health disciplines or public health programs. These Sections allow members with shared interests to come together to develop scientific program content and policy resolutions in their areas of interest or fields of practice, and they provide for professional and social networking, career development, and mentoring.
To be an active Section member, an individual must have a current membership in IPHA. Anyone who is a member of IPHA may become a member of two Sections.
Academia
The purpose of the Academia Section of IPHA is to promote increased linkages and collaboration between the public health academic community and the practice community. Academic public health presentations and sessions at IPHA meetings will be promoted, as well as involvement in IPHA activities by health professions students in the state of Illinois.
Community Health Worker
The Community Health Worker (CHW) Section with IPHA is an unparalleled opportunity to make a tangible difference in community health. As a member, you’ll collaborate with passionate professionals dedicated to advancing the field of CHWs, advocating for recognition, and promoting best practices. By contributing your expertise and insights, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping policies, programs, and initiatives that directly impact the well-being of individuals and communities across Illinois. Join us in empowering CHWs, amplifying their voices, and driving positive change in public health.
Family Planning and Maternal and Child Health
The purpose of the Family Planning and Maternal and Child Health Section is to support the exchange of ideas, the development of positions on MCH issues, and further the dissemination of those positions, and contribute to the development, coordination and extension of MCH programs at the local, regional and state level.
Nursing
The purposes of the Nursing Section are to advance the cause of public health nursing in Illinois, to support the exchange of ideas, knowledge and skills among members, and to support the increase of membership and participation in the IPHA.
Student
The goal of the Student Section is to further the development of students, the next generation of professionals in public health and health-related disciplines. This section represents and serves students of public health and other health-related disciplines by connecting individuals who are interested in working together on public health and student-related issues.