59: The Importance of Crisis Communications in Public Health

As states continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of crisis communications is vital. How can states provide the public with relevant, timely information? What are the essential elements of a crisis communications response?   

In our latest episode, Umair Shah (Director, Washington State Department of Health) and Khalilah LeGrand (Director of Communications, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services) share the latest insights from the field. Hear them discuss lessons learned during the pandemic, strategies public health communications departments can use to connect audiences with resources, and best practices of media relations.

Guests:

Umair Shah, MD, MPH, Secretary of Health, Washington State Department of Health

Khalilah LeGrand, EdD, Director of Communications, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

Resources:

• Washington Department of Health COVID-19 Resources
• Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Resources
• CDC Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) Training and Resources