Public health is the science and art of improving health and preventing disease. We are extremely well versed in this, for example, it’s on the home page of the Faculty of Public Health’s website. Being somewhat provocative, it feels like the public health practice I find myself embedded in is much more grounded in science than art – I think about this a lot and wonder if other people see this and why it’s like this.

This thinking led me to the title of my blog – The Public Health Artist.

The two-fold art and science was defined by Charles-Edward A. Winslow in 1920, who described public health as “the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized community efforts.” This definition emphasises the importance of not only understanding the scientific basis of health and disease but also applying this knowledge in practical, often complex, real-world situations and systems. The origins of Public Health are relevant to how we evolved as a profession; Winslow was the creator of the Yale School of Public Health in the 1910s. Importantly for me, his work remains a call to action for the public health workforce.

Gravitating towards the scientific aspects of our field is understandable; the system we work in requires us to quantify what we do and prove our worth. The science of public health is grounded in data, research, and evidence. This creates an illusion of clear, measurable outcomes and a sense of certainty. However, the art of public health – encompassing communication, community engagement, leadership, innovation, human connection and adaptability – is equally crucial. Yet people still call these “soft skills” I think we seek comfort in the clarity of our science to the detriment of our art.

The art of public health involves effectively communicating health information; advocating for policies that promote health; engaging with communities to understand their needs; and leading collaborative efforts across sectors. Working in this way requires creativity, empathy, and the ability to navigate complex social dynamics. These skills are essential for translating scientific knowledge into meaningful action to improve the health of our population.

As public health professionals in Scotland, we are facing unprecedented health challenges. The burden of disease in our population is alarming and increasing. Despite the best efforts of the public health professional over 30 years, most measures of population health are deteriorating. This calls for not more investment for more of the same approach, but a rethink of what we can do to improve health and reduce inequality.

To meet the unprecedented health needs of our population, we must step out of the comfort zone of science based practice. Building strong partnerships across sectors, engaging in policy advocacy, communicating effectively, educating and empowering communities, and demonstrating collective leadership should be our top priorities. But most of all, we need to build relationships and connections with anyone willing to work with us. To be fully effective at the art of public health, we must learn to lead with our hearts as well as our heads.

This is a call to action for all public health professionals in Scotland. Let’s not shy away from the complexities and uncertainties of the art of public health. Instead, let us embrace it as an essential component of our work. Together, we can create a healthier future for our communities.