SHO-CASE

State Health Officials

Career Achievement and Sustainability Evaluation

What qualities contribute to effective state health officials (SHOs)? Public health leadership has been analyzed and written about, but few studies have examined the personal characteristics and experiences of state health leaders and what their leadership looks like in the context of their state. This project explores the experience of SHOs through interviews, surveys, and research. By determining the model of a successful SHO, governors and legislators will have a tool to better understand and analyze the qualities and backgrounds of potential candidates, to best prepare them for the job and to avoid the indicators of derailment. Over the next year, the project team will share their findings through a series of presentations, articles, and more.

Publications

Preventing Leader Derailment—A Strategic Imperative for Public Health Agencies

Public health leaders, such as those who serve as state health officials (SHOs), routinely face challenges that are uncertain and complex.

What State Health Officials Wish They Had Known and How They Learned Best

Most SHOs function as the chief executive of cers (CEOs) of their health departments. However, unlike most CEOs, many SHOs come to the position not having had extensive managerial experience and, like- wise, lack experience in a governmental setting, in public health, or both.

High Turnover Among State Health Of cials/Public Health Directors: Implications for the Public’s Health

State health officials (SHOs) serve a critical role as the leaders of state public health systems. Despite their many responsibilities, there is no formal process for preparation to become an SHO, and few requirements influence the selection of an SHO. Furthermore, to date, no studies have examined SHO tenure or their experiences.

State Health Officials—Defining Success and Identifying Critical Success Factors

Governmental health agencies at the state level are traditionally led by appointed state health officials (SHOs). While there have been SHOs leading our nation’s state health agencies since their creation, little is known about the personal and professional characteristics or organizational factors that make those occupying these key positions successful.