Important Links
Main platform for Tier 1 of Training Hub program. Train MA has online, self-paced modules according to various Tier 1 subject matters, in addition to many other public health focused trainings to do on your own time.
Office of Local & Regional Health (OLRH)
Learn more about the division within the Massachusetts Department of Public Health that is leading the way on improving local public health. OLRH works closely with the Training Hubs to continue developing the program into the best it can be.
Public Health Workforce Standards
Based on the Blueprint for Public Health Excellence, the Department of Public Health has identified the credentials and experience expected for a variety of personnel in local health departments. The expectation is that all public health professionals that are new to the field or have been in the field for less than 7 years work to meet the standards outlined for their position. This includes a variety of trainings, certifications, and education requirements.
Public Health Performance Standards
The Department of Public Health has identified baseline performance standards that all Health Departments in Massachusetts are expected to meet and practice, as outlined in the Blueprint for Public Health Excellence. By ensuring each Health Department is meeting each performance standard, which are based on regulatory requirements, we are one step closer to providing equitable local public health services across the state. Shared Services Arrangements aim to propel each Health Department closer towards meeting the performance standard through regional standardization of public health practices.
SAPHE (State Act for Public Health Excellence) 2.0 Regulation
Expanding upon the original SAPHE regulation, SAPHE 2.0, signed into law on November 20, 2024, aims to standardize public health services across the Commonwealth through establishing minimum standards, incentivizing Shared Service Arrangements, improving data collection systems, and establishing sustainable funding.
Foundational Public Health Services
The current Performance Standards for Local Public Health are based on Massachusetts laws and regulations. The Foundational Public Health Services (FPHS) go a step further and describe the core elements of public health services that should be provided to a community. The FPHS Framework sets a minimum level of services that should be available in every community.
Charles River Public Health District
Did you know a majority of the North Central & MetroWest Training Hub staff also lead the Charles River Public Health District Shared Services Collaborative? Visit our website to learn more about the other public health work we do!