Our Values
AOS values are to strengthen internal capacity and infrastructure within AOS member health departments.
Measurement Transparency
AOS members are committed to ensuring that our measurements are transparent and shareable with all AOS members and the public. We aim to provide data in a common, accessible file format for ease of use and collaboration.
Technology Independence
AOS members prioritize using the best available technology for data collection while safeguarding against practices that could isolate or compartmentalize our scientific and collaborative efforts.
United We Succeed
AOS members recognize that our success is dependent on our ability to speak a common measurement language. We work together to identify and discuss best practices for measurement and data use in our Public Health Departments.
Stewards of the Measurements
AOS members understand that we are stewards of these measurements, not owners. Our responsibility is to improve and pass them forward in better condition than we received them.
Data Ownership and Sovereignty
AOS members are committed to protecting the ownership of health department data and uphold the principles of data sovereignty, ensuring that each department maintains control over its own data.
Scientific Debate and Disagreement
AOS members foster an environment where scientific debate and disagreement about measurement are encouraged in a respectful and constructive manner. We believe that healthy discourse strengthens our collective understanding.
Measurement Simplicity
AOS members are dedicated to developing measurements that are clear and understandable to lay leaders, citizens, and other stakeholders. We strive to present data in its simplest and most accessible form.
Reducing Measurement Duplication
AOS members work to minimize the duplication of measurements across local health departments. Our goal is to unify the measurement language used in the field and ensure consistency in data collection.
Measurement Acceptance and Adoption
AOS members understand that standardization of measurements gains strength and meaning when it is accepted and widely adopted by peers. We take seriously our role in evaluating and endorsing all submitted measurements.
Every Health Department Matters
AOS members are committed to fostering inclusivity within the local health department (LHD) measurement community regardless of their financial situation. We welcome and encourage the participation of all health departments in the development and use of scientific measurements.
Public Procurement Excellence
AOS members adhere to the standards and guidelines set forth by the National Institute of Government Procurement (NIGP) in the procurement of goods and services, ensuring ethical and transparent practices in all procurement activities.
Change Agents
AOS members are committed to confronting our biases and operationalizing our core values. We recognize that intention alone is not enough; we challenge ourselves to continually deconstruct frameworks and measurement practices that perpetuate oppression and inequality.
