JPHMP’s Top Articles of 2024: Honoring Excellence in Research and Practice

Posted on January 10, 2025 by Sheryl Monks

As we reflect on another impactful year in public health, the Journal of Public Health Management & Practice (JPHMP) would like to recognize two articles that our editors and editorial board felt were of exceptional quality and importance to public health. These articles exemplify the journal’s mission to advance public health practice and policy through innovative research and actionable strategies.

Top Pick: Research Article

“From Pandemic to Epidemic – Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Applied to Mpox Outbreak Response, Westchester County, Metropolitan New York”

This groundbreaking study by Mariana Keller and colleagues, appearing in our January 2024 issue, captures the adaptability and resilience of public health systems in the face of evolving challenges. By applying lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to the Mpox outbreak in Westchester County, the authors provide a compelling analysis of how past experiences can inform future epidemic responses.

“The authors took an idea from pilot to permanent program and brought the readers along for that very challenging ride,” noted one of our editorial board members. “They show decisions made, science applied, and a pivot owing to COVID-19. Well-written, well executed.”

Key insights include:

Strengthening interagency collaboration for rapid and coordinated outbreak management.
Leveraging data systems and public health infrastructure developed during COVID-19 to address new threats.
Prioritizing community engagement to build trust and enhance vaccine uptake.

This article highlights the critical importance of applying evidence-based strategies to manage emerging public health crises effectively.

Top Pick: Practice Article

“Leveraging Science to Advance Health Equity – Preliminary Considerations for Implementing Health Equity Science at State and Local Health Departments”

This article by Ashley Ottewell and colleagues, appearing in a special article collection sponsored by ASTHO in our July 2024 issue, stands out for its forward-thinking approach to embedding health equity science into public health practice. By offering practical guidance for state and local health departments, the authors chart a course for addressing systemic inequities that hinder population health outcomes.

One member of our editorial board noted, “This practice report provides a good framework for implementing health equity science (HES) in SHDs and LHDs to address structural racism as a public health threat. I find this report valuable because it is actionable and underscores the value of data modernization. Addressing workforce development and community inclusion serves as a strong candidate for Practice Report of the Year.”

Highlights of this article include:

Frameworks for integrating health equity science into public health decision-making.
Strategies for building capacity within health departments to address social determinants of health.
Early successes and challenges encountered in implementation, providing a roadmap for others.

This piece is a call-to-action for public health professionals to make health equity a cornerstone of their work, fostering meaningful change at every level of the system.

Why These Articles Are Important

Both articles reflect the themes at the heart of JPHMP’s mission: translating research into practice and fostering innovation to tackle the most pressing public health challenges. They embody the dedication of public health professionals to improve the lives of individuals and communities through evidence-based solutions and equitable practices.

Other Notable Articles of 2024

Two other articles published last year received high praise from members of our editorial board.

“The Relationship of Vaccine Uptake and COVID-19 Infections Among Nursing Home Staff and Residents in Missouri: A Measure of Risk by Community Mobility” by Stephen Scroggins, et al, appearing in the March 2024 issue, received the following endorsement:

“This study makes a valuable contribution to understanding the impact of staff vaccination on COVID-19 infection rates in highly vulnerable nursing home (NH) populations. The article highlights that even small increases in NH staff vaccination coverage can significantly reduce COVID-19 cases among residents, showcasing the importance of prioritizing vaccination efforts for healthcare workers in congregate care settings. The research provides practical insights for managing infectious disease risks in NHs and similar environments. These findings provide critical evidence for informing policy and practice aiming to protect vulnerable populations and inform future strategies for vaccination prioritization and resource allocation in congregate settings.”

“From Research to Roach Traps: Practical Considerations for a Home-Based Asthma Program” by Natalie Talis, et al, appearing in the May 2024 issue, also received high praise:

“While practice oriented, the authors’ research methods were robust. The results are useful and important. Best of kind of paper to see in this journal.”

A Special Thank You to Our Contributors

We extend our deepest gratitude to the authors, reviewers, and readers who make JPHMP a trusted resource for public health insights. The excellence showcased in these articles reflects the collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment of our community to advance the field of public health.

Stay tuned for more exceptional content in 2025. And thank you for your continued support of JPHMP.

Congratulations to the authors of our Top Articles of 2024! We invite you to explore these exceptional works and join us in celebrating their contributions to public health.

Did you read an article in JPHMP this year that you feel should also be recognized? Leave us a comment below.

About the Author

Sheryl Monks: Sheryl Monks is the managing editor of the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice. She is passionate about connecting public health professionals with the insights and resources they need to improve community health.