Overview

Missouri is in the Midwestern region of the United States and has a population of 6.1 million people. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is an independent agency and has a decentralized relationship with local health departments in the state. Missouri envisions improved health and quality of life for Missourians of all ages by providing information and education, effective regulation and oversight, quality services, and surveillance of diseases and conditions.

Many local public health agencies are thinking ahead as to what the future looks like for them. Public health professionals know that we cannot continue doing what we were pre-pandemic. The landscape of public health has changed, and we know that we need to do differently to move forward. Emily Fessler, Project Manager, #HealthierMO]

Key Highlights

#HealthierMO is a grassroots initiative, drawing energy and direction from local public health agencies and public health system stakeholders, with the goal of transforming Missouri’s public health system from within.

#HealthierMO developed a photostory series called Hope for a Healthier Tomorrow. It is a collection of stories from Missourians across the state highlighting gaps in the healthcare system, the urgent need for change, and the passion to create a brighter tomorrow for all Missourians.

#HealthierMO collaborated with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to complete a capacity assessment based on Missouri’s FPHS model. Assessment data showed the level of per capita funding for local public health agencies drives capacity.

#HealthierMO developed a capacity building program that was launched in May 2022. “An FPHS Approach to Improving Well-being for All Missourians” is a multi-step process that equips public health agencies to operationalize the FPHS model in order to assure health equity for all Missourians.

Missouri Foundational Public Health Services Model

Missouri’s Foundational Public Health Services (FPHS) model describes a minimum set of fundamental services and capabilities that must be available in every community in order to ensure Missouri’s public health system delivers equitable opportunities for good health to all Missourians.

​The FPHS model provides a critical and consistent framework for practicing public health.