Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO)

Background

The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) is a non-profit organization established in 1942, representing the public health agencies of the United States, including all 50 states, Washington, D.C., five U.S. territories, and three Freely Associated States. ASTHO's mission is to support, equip, and advocate for state and territorial health officials in their work of advancing the public’s health and well-being. The organization's vision is for state and territorial health agencies to advance health equity and optimal health for all.

Key Strategic Focus

ASTHO focuses on developing strong and effective public health leaders, improving public health through capacity building, technical assistance, and thought leadership, and advocating for resources and policies that enhance public health and well-being. The organization emphasizes promoting health equity and optimal health for all.

Financials and Funding

ASTHO operates as a non-profit entity, with estimated annual revenues ranging from $35 million to $100 million. The organization employs approximately 152 to 356 individuals.

Pipeline Development

ASTHO's initiatives include:

Community Health and Disease Prevention: Providing leadership support and capacity building to improve population health in areas such as family and child health, maternal and infant health, and chronic disease.

Health Security: Focusing on health emergencies caused by natural disasters, outbreaks, pandemics, deliberate attacks, and environmental catastrophes.

Population Health and Innovation: Implementing strategies to enhance population health through innovative approaches.

Technological Platform and Innovation

ASTHO leverages various technological platforms and methodologies to support public health initiatives, including:

e-Learning Center: Offering online courses and resources for public health professionals.

Data Modernization: Assisting health agencies in modernizing data systems to improve public health outcomes.

Telehealth Initiatives: Guiding governmental public health agencies in implementing telehealth services to expand access to care.

Leadership Team

Dr. Joseph Kanter, MD, MPH: Chief Executive Officer since April 2024. Previously served as the State Health Officer at the Louisiana Department of Health from January 2021 to February 2024.

Mary Cooney: Chief Program Officer, Health Equity.

Sabrina Smith: Chief Operations Officer.

James Blumenstock: Chief Program Officer, Public Health Practice.

Candace Aylward-Raboff: Acting Chief Financial Officer.

Marcus Plescia: Chief Medical Officer.

Leadership Changes

In April 2024, Dr. Joseph Kanter succeeded Dr. Michael Fraser as CEO. Dr. Fraser served as CEO from August 2016 to March 2024.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

ASTHO operates within the public health sector, focusing on supporting state and territorial health agencies. The organization collaborates with various public health entities to address health challenges and promote well-being.

Competitor Analysis

National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO): Represents local health departments and focuses on promoting health and well-being through programs and services.

American Health Care Association (AHCA): Represents nursing homes, assisted living communities, and facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

ASTHO collaborates with organizations such as the Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) to improve the health and well-being of older adults. In June 2024, ASTHO achieved Advanced Recognition through TFAH’s Age-Friendly Public Health Systems Recognition Program.

Operational Insights

ASTHO's strategic initiatives include:

Advocacy: Campaigning for resources and policies that improve public health.

Capacity Building: Providing technical assistance and thought leadership to health agencies.

Leadership Development: Offering programs like the ASTHO Leadership Institute to develop public health leaders.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

ASTHO aims to continue supporting public health agencies in addressing emerging health challenges, promoting health equity, and enhancing public health infrastructure through innovative strategies and collaborations.