APHA Recognizes HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson’s Contributions to Public Health

Washington, D.C., December 3, 2004 – “As a member of Secretary Thompson’s advisory committee on public health preparedness, I have seen firsthand his commitment to strengthening the nation’s public health infrastructure. Under his leadership, the Department of Health and Human Services has worked to improve communication among health professionals, invest in the training of workers on the frontlines of health emergencies and improve the capacity of public health laboratories.

“I also commend Secretary Thompson for his strong support for preventing chronic diseases. His healthy steps initiative directed funding and attention to improve physical activity and help reduce the nation’s chronic disease burden. He was a role model for Americans and personally helped champion the value of exercise and healthy diets.

“On the bioterrorism front, Secretary Thompson pushed to improve the public health system’s response to health threats after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and the anthrax attacks. I wish him well in his future endeavors.”