From Textbook to Texas: A Public Health Assessment in San Antonio
Mallika Balagopal
2nd Year, MPH, Epidemiology Student
After countless hours studying community health theories and envisioning the day we could apply them in real-world settings, that day has finally arrived! I am excited to announce that I will be heading to the vibrant city of San Antonio, Texas, to conduct a real-life Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). This is an incredible opportunity to apply what we've learned in a practical, impactful way.
Bridging Two Worlds
As a former dentist in India, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact of social determinants on health. From my time working in busy dental clinics in India, to my experience in Michigan, and now in the diverse streets of San Antonio, the complexities behind health disparities are both striking and inspiring. I look forward to seeing how my unique background will inform and shape our approach to this important CHNA.
Our team is taking a comprehensive approach to assess the health landscape of San Antonio. We’ve developed surveys to gather insights into key health trends, focusing on areas like food choices and healthcare access. Additionally, we’ll be facilitating focus groups to capture in-depth conversations about the community’s health needs, and we plan to visit various neighborhoods to gather firsthand insights. Through these combined efforts, we aim to gain a thorough understanding of the health challenges and opportunities facing the community.
The Bigger Picture
Beyond the work itself, I’m also reflecting on what I hope to learn about myself during this field experience. I’m excited to see how my skills will evolve as I apply them in the field, but I also wonder how the challenges of working with diverse populations will shape my approach to public health in the future. Will I become more adaptable in unfamiliar environments? Will I develop new perspectives on the importance of community engagement? These are the questions I look forward to answering throughout this experience.
This fieldwork serves as a powerful reminder of why I chose the field of public health in the first place: it’s about engaging with communities, amplifying voices that often go unheard, and working towards healthier, more equitable futures for everyone. I’m excited for this new adventure, the lessons I’ll learn, and, of course, the chance to enjoy some Tex-Mex along the way. Stay tuned for updates as we work to improve the health landscape in San Antonio.