VHA Public Health National Program Office (PHNPO)
National Public Health Week April 7-13, 2025
National Public Health Week marks the contributions of life-saving public health programs, remarkable progress made in public health innovations and tools, and the dedication of VA’s Public Health workforce striving to address the health challenges of our present and future
⊗ Public Health is the field of science and practice focusing on protecting and improving the health of populations and communities
⊗ Public Health prevents acute and chronic health problems from happening, or recurring, through programs, services, research and policies
Key Areas of Public Health at VA
Each year during National Public Health Week (NPHW)*, Veterans Health Administration (VA) recognizes the contributions of live-saving public health programs and highlights health issues that are important to Veterans. New tools and innovations help public health professionals reduce preventable disease, diagnose health conditions, and support Veteran health and well-being.
VHA’s Public Health National Program Office (PHNPO) is dedicated to addressing public health issues and emergencies – including preventable infections, exposures, and illnesses – that impact Veterans and VA staff. Public health saves lives, connects us all, and makes Veterans, Veterans’ communities, and VA stronger and healthier together.
VA's Five Days to Health Challenge:
VA challenges you to take the Five Days to be Healthier Together challenge, during National Public Health Week, with each day focusing on a different health topic. Here is the challenge: 
Monday: Enroll in Health Care
Accessing health services is an important step to improving health. VA encourages all Veterans to access health care benefits to improve their health, fitness, and well-being. VA health care covers physical and mental health, as well as a range of services from checkups to surgeries to home health care, and prescriptions and medical equipment. Check your eligibility and apply for VA health care.
Tuesday: Talk with Your Healthcare Provider
Make sure your providers know your most recent medical history, discuss what preventative screening and vaccinations are recommended for you, and schedule your annual check-up. Before your appointment, write down questions you may have. Regularly meeting with your provider can help you reduce your risk of preventable diseases and make healthier decisions.
Wednesday: Connect with Buddies, Peers, or Neighbors
Loneliness is not just a bad feeling – it harms the health of individuals and communities. Staying connected to community is a proven way to prevent social isolation, improve mental health, reduce heart disease and dementia risk, and promote well-being. Checking in on friends and neighbors is a simple act that goes a long way.
Thursday: Go Tobacco-Free
Create a plan to quit smoking for good. Quitting will help you live a longer, healthier, more active life, with more time to spend with family and friends. VA has resources to help you quit. Call 1-855-QUIT-VET (1-855-784-8838) or text VET to 47848 or by visiting smokefree.gov/VET to get started.
Friday: Develop and Practice Healthy Habits
Eating balanced meals and exercising regularly can improve your energy and help protect your health long-term. Start small: Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or take a walk around the block. Talk to your VA healthcare team if you have questions about what type of activities and food habits are best for you. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before preparing food or eating. Small changes make a difference!
Public Health - Year-Round Effort
It is more than just an annual calendar event: It is a reminder to recognize the exceptional work done in public health, spanning many programs and services, that contributes greatly to supporting the health and well-being of Veterans. It is an opportunity to talk to Veterans about the abundant VA resources available to them to help decrease their risks of chronic diseases, protect against new health risks, and nurture healthy habits.
Quote: "America’s Veterans live in communities in every part of our country, which means that staying ahead of population-level health concerns, including communicable diseases, is especially important. Public health work is crucial to understanding and preventing health concerns impacting Veterans, ensuring that we can provide them with the soonest and best care," said Dr. Mark Holodniy, Director of the Office of Public Health at VHA. "Participating in Public Health Week is a way for us to raise awareness about the life-saving work being done at the Public Health National Program Office and throughout the VA."
This week, and every day, VA is proud to be a leader in public health. We will continue to uplift and celebrate the excellence provided by VA Public Health programs in healthcare, disease prevention, preparedness, and outreach. We can help Veterans be stronger and healthier together through public health!
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