This week is National Public Health Week, an annual observance each April to recognize public health contributions and address key health issues.
The theme for this year’s observance is Ready. Set. Action. As part of its commitment to improving the health and well-being of all South Carolinians, the state Department of Public Health (DPH) is using the week to emphasize how the agency prepares, aligns, and acts to positively impact, strengthen and protect citizens and their communities.
“Public health is about protecting, uplifting and empowering individuals as well as communities, and we remain committed to ensuring we are connecting people with the services and tools needed to continue our progress toward a healthier future in South Carolina," said Dr. Edward Simmer, interim director of DPH.
Last year, DPH joined the Alliance for a Healthier South Carolina and multi-sector partners from across the state in announcing the 2025–2030 South Carolina State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP), aimed at improving health outcomes statewide. The SHIP serves as a five-year roadmap for health improvement, translating population-level health data into actionable strategies that advance the well-being of South Carolinians.
The agency also launched its DPH in Action video series to introduce the agency’s public health employees, partnerships and services to South Carolinians in quick, 60-second vignettes. Additionally, in the United Health Foundation’s 2025 Health Rankings Annual Report, South Carolina ranked 36, achieving its highest statewide health ranking since the report was first launched in 1990.
“At DPH, we are proud of the advancements we’ve made to improve the health and safety of residents across our state,” Simmer said. “But our work is not finished, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to strengthening public health outcomes for every resident of our state."