National Public Health Week (NPHW) kicks off virtually around the United States from April 5 through April 11, 2021. 

National Public Health Week is celebrated annually by American Public Health Association (APHA) and thousands of health-related organizations across the country. In 2021, NPHW events will be held entirely online due in an effort to adhere to COVID-19 physical distancing protocols and CDC guidance. 

What is National Public Health Week (NPHW)?

For 25 years, APHA has organized National Public Health week during the first week in April. NPHW brings communities together to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving our nation’s health. NPHW shines a light on the US healthcare system and invites healthcare providers to unite and solve some of the healthcare system’s biggest challenges.

What are healthcare challenges being observed and discussed during NPHW 2021?

According to NPHW.org, “fewer Americans Have access to timely and affordable medical care and that’s a stumbling block to creating the healthiest nation in one generation.But that’s just one piece of the healthier nation puzzle. As we explore access to care and burden of disease, we must invest in equitable solutions to advance public health.” The website goes on to explain, “If we focus on inclusion and equity to ensure that decisions are made with everyone’s health in mind, we can build healthier communities, and eventually, the healthiest nation.

What does “Building Bridges to Better Health” mean?

The slogan, “Building Bridges to Better Health” is the theme for NPHW 2021. For the APHA and NPHW tearing down divisions in health equity is of the utmost importance. As the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted, our healthcare system is fragile and it is important to acknowledge the gap in equitable healthcare. The theme, Building Bridges to Better Health, is ment to acknowledge the shortcomings in our healthcare system and inspire healthcare providers and their communities to come together and build relationships and solutions that can lead to healthier communities. 

Themes for Each Day: 

In step with the 2021 theme, Building Bridges to Better Health, NPHW is taking each day one step at a time

How is HealthMerch involved in National Public Health Week?

HealthMerch is dedicated to improving community health throughout the United States. We work to improve communication, outreach, and engagement strategies between healthcare providers and their communities because we know that a fully-functioning healthcare system starts from the ground up. At HealthMerch, we work with FQHCs, community based organizations, hospitals, and clinics to assist them with communicating their health programs and services to the individuals who need them the most. Get inspired by some of the work we've done with clients here.

When is National Public Health Week?

  • April 5-11, 2021
  • April 4-10, 2022
  • April 3-9, 2023