Not Goodbye, Just a New Way to Serve
by Meagan Rico, MSN, RN CHES (former Health Educator)
If there's one thing my career in public health has taught me, it's that the health of a community is shaped by far more than what happens inside a doctor's office or health department. It's shaped by our neighborhoods, access to resources, economic opportunities, social connections, and the decisions made by the institutions that serve us.
In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2024) identifies five major categories of social determinants of health: economic stability, education, healthcare access, neighborhood environments, and social and community connections. These factors play a significant role in shaping our health and quality of life.
At its core, public health is about people. And so is good governance.
Research continues to demonstrate just how important community connections are to our well-being. According to the U.S. Surgeon General (2023), social isolation is associated with a 29% increased risk of premature death. Meanwhile, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (2023) recognizes civic participation, including volunteering and involvement in community decision-making, as an increasingly important social driver of health.
These findings reinforce something I've witnessed throughout my work as a Health Educator:
Healthy communities aren't built by healthcare systems alone. They're built through relationships, collaboration, and opportunities for people to have a voice in shaping their community.
As I prepare to transition from my role at the Saline County Health Department to my new position as Saline County's Community Engagement Coordinator, I've been reflecting on how closely public health and local government are connected.
Meaningful community engagement goes beyond sharing information. It's about listening, building trust, improving transparency, and ensuring residents have opportunities to participate in decisions that affect their lives.
When residents feel informed, heard, and connected to their local government, we create opportunities for stronger relationships, more responsive services, and healthier communities.
Throughout my time at the Health Department, I've had the privilege of working alongside incredible colleagues, community partners, and residents who share a commitment to improving life in Saline County. I'm deeply grateful for the relationships we've built, the lessons I've learned, and the opportunities I've had to serve this community.
My final day with the Health Department is on November 6th, and I begin my new role on November 9th.
While my title and responsibilities have changed, my commitment to public service, education, collaboration, and community well-being remains the same.
So, rather than saying goodbye, I'll simply say see you later, just in a different capacity.
After all, public health doesn't end at the doors of the Health Department. It extends into our neighborhoods, our institutions, and the decisions we make together. Because building a healthier, stronger, more connected Saline County is a shared responsibility and an ongoing commitment to one another. Are you up for the challenge?
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