Evolution of a Training Program for Tribal Public Health and Emergency Preparedness Law

The threats our nation faces from infectious disease and other public health emergencies are matters of serious concern.  Thus, it is critical that all levels of government have the capacity to effectively respond to these threats.  Legal preparedness is an important component of public health capacity, as laws are essential to delivery of public health services, including emergency response.

Tribal governments are sovereign entities with authority to create their own laws.  However, many tribal communities have not yet fully developed public health codes.  Moreover, jurisdictional issues often arise between federal, state, and tribal governments due to the complex history surrounding delivery of public health services to tribal communities.  Thus, navigating public health and emergency response issues in Indian Country can be challenging. 

A training program was developed by the University of Pittsburgh in collaboration with the CDC Public Health Law Program and Association of State and Territorial Health Officials regarding tribal public health and emergency preparedness law.  Seminars were held in 2012 and 2014 involving over 20 tribes with a focus on the tribal judiciary. In June 2015, the training will be offered as a workshop for tribal communities and their partners in the southwestern United States.  A redesigned curriculum will be offered, emphasizing tribal perspectives, best practices, and lessons learned. 

This session will focus on the need to increase tribal public health capacity, including development of tribal public health laws and other legal preparedness materials.  Topics will include curriculum development, venue and speaker selection, evaluation data, and key findings.