United Health Services (UHS) announced on April 6 its ongoing commitment to public health in Greater Binghamton as part of National Public Health Week, which takes place from April 6 to April 12. The announcement comes as the American Public Health Association brings communities together nationwide to recognize efforts that improve quality of life and strengthen families.
National Public Health Week aims to draw attention to the work being done by healthcare providers and organizations in protecting community health. UHS said it supports this mission through a variety of initiatives designed to help people live healthier lives.
Public health professionals at UHS are involved in tracking disease outbreaks, setting safety standards for workers, and developing school nutrition programs. While traditional healthcare focuses on treating illness or injury, public health works proactively to prevent these issues across entire populations.
The UHS Population Health team plays a key role by operating an in-house food pantry that has served over 2,615 households since its launch in April 2024. The team also partners with local organizations such as CHOW and the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, and recently expanded services with the Regional Food Bank for patients at UHS Delaware Valley Hospital. In addition, they assist patients with securing funds for housing needs like rent or security deposits.
“The care coordination from the Population Health team is all about making sure we are caring for our patients and providing what they need most,” said Annie DePugh, director of Population Health Management at UHS. “We want to make sure the UHS Values are embodied every day in the care we provide.”
DePugh also said: “Every day, we see how needing basic things like food and housing can leave a lasting impact on a patient’s overall health. Our team works to make sure we can provide them with those building blocks and help them live a healthier life.”
UHS employees regularly participate in community events such as food drives, fundraising walks, free screening clinics, and other outreach activities throughout Greater Binghamton. The organization publishes an annual Community Impact Report detailing these efforts.
As National Public Health Week is observed this year, UHS reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening systems and partnerships that support healthy communities.
