APHA's Executive Board is a 24-member body that serves on behalf of the Governing Council. The Board meets regularly throughout the year to discuss Association business. In the area of policy, the board carries out established Association policies and adopts interim public policy between Governing Council meetings. In management, the Board elects the executive director and establishes annual budgets, among other duties. The Board also reviews and coordinates the recommendation of Association boards and committees and defines and approves of policies and procedures relating to Affiliates and Sections. The Board works on membership issues such as overseeing election procedures and establishing dues (subject to Governing Council approval). And the Board approves appointments to most Association boards and committees.

APHA's staff work at Association headquarters in Washington, D.C. Staff members support Association members and APHA's mission to improve the health of the public and achieve equity in health status.