FAQs
What is the LHD Academy of Science?
The LHD Academy of Science is a national organization representing local health department (LHD) data collectors. Many of our members are staff from NACCHO-affiliated health departments who collaborate to standardize survey methodologies, data collection, and reporting.
Note: We are not part of NACCHO.
Why was the LHD Academy of Science established?
The LHD Academy of Science was founded by NACCHO-member health departments with the goal of reducing costs by sharing survey software, creating a public survey library, and establishing common best practices and metrics for data collection. We also aim to securely aggregate and benchmark data at both the state and national levels.
What is the mission of the LHD Academy of Science?
- Lower or eliminate costs for data collection
- Create a public library of LHD surveys and measurements
- Promote standardized metrics and unify the local health community
How does the LHD Academy of Science work?
We are a government association serving local health department data collectors. Our member groups meet monthly to share insights and align on common health department measurements. To learn more or request a 20-minute demo, please email faith@lhdacademyofscience.org.
What is required to join the LHD Academy of Science?
NACCHO membership is no longer required, but it is still strongly recommended.
How are State Health Departments involved?
Many state health departments support and lead efforts to standardize data collection and measurement practices among local health departments. AOS encourages member groups to collaborate with their state health departments. We are grateful for the financial support from Michigan, Kentucky, Colorado, Nevada, and Kansas. We welcome additional support from other state health departments, as this is a significant and collaborative effort.
How are SACCHOs involved?
State Associations of County and City Health Officials (SACCHOs) such as MALPH (Michigan), KALHD (Kansas), and KHDA (Kentucky) play a critical role in the success of AOS state groups. Our AOS groups are generally more successful when supported by their SACCHO. Each state group is encouraged to establish strong relationships with their SACCHO. In many states, AOS leadership is appointed by SACCHO leadership, with decisions made on a state-by-state basis. Together, we can solve complex challenges. Contact us for more information about your state.
What type of organization is the LHD Academy of Science?
The LHD Academy of Science is a professional association for local health department data collectors, serving NACCHO and SACCHO member health departments. In July 2021, the AOS Board voted to operate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). AOS handles the RFP and cooperative procurement process for goods and services used by all members, as well as onboarding, monthly meetings, events, and administration. The association’s primary purpose is to create a public library for local health department measurements.
How is the CDC involved?
AOS benefits from the leadership and support of the CDC. We regularly sync with CDC leaders to gain guidance on improving services for AOS member health departments. Additionally, AOS receives multiple grants from the CDC, covering more than 50% of our programs. We are particularly grateful for their ongoing support. The AOS Board allows all CDC Division directors to attend AOS Board meetings on a regular basis to give advice and any support or advice on data standardization issues.
Is the LHD Academy of Science a part of NACCHO?
No, the LHD Academy of Science is not a NACCHO program. However, AOS is led by many NACCHO members, and all AOS members are encouraged to be NACCHO dues-paying members. Decisions related to AOS are made by the AOS Board and membership, independent of NACCHO’s infrastructure.
How do I become a NACCHO member?
To become a NACCHO member, please contact NACCHO directly by emailing membership@naccho.org or calling 877-533-1320.
Why should I become an LHD Academy of Science member?
- Simplify and streamline data collection
- Access over 4000+ LHD-specific templates to make data collection easier
- Contribute to unifying the local health community with standardized measurements
What type of organization is the LHD Academy of Science?
The LHD Academy of Science is a government association for local health department data collectors that serves NACCHO/SACCHO member health departments. In July 2021, the AOS Board voted to operate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). AOS oversees the RFP and cooperative procurement processes, onboarding, monthly meetings, and events. The AOS Library is owned solely by its member Health Departments. The core mission of the Academy is to create a public library for LHD data measurements for its members.
