Two rural Montana public health enthusiasts discuss findings from surveys and interviews with rural Montanans about the health, vitality, needs, strengths, and future of their communities.
Presenter Bios: Margaret Mullins has worked with the Montana State Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS) since 2021, most recently as the Social Determinants of Health Program Manager with the Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Bureau (CDPHPB). She helps to guide the health equity and social determinants of health work with the programs in the Bureau, interfacing with health care systems, community-based organizations and other outside organizations to build connections. Past work experiences across the country in Seattle, Boston and Phoenix promoting worker health, public health and improved patient outcomes from chronic disease is the foundation that brings necessary broad perspective to help reduce disparities and advance health equity in Montana’s larger towns, rural/frontier communities and tribal communities. Ms. Mullins recently completed a year-long Equity Changemaker course sponsored by the Centers for Health Care Strategies (CHCS), gaining leadership and planning skills. Trina Filan has worked with Montana DPHHS in the CDPHPB for six years as an evaluator for the Diabetes and Cardiovascular Health Programs. These programs provide grant money to projects around Montana to improve diabetes prevention and management, heart health, and stroke prevention. Trina loves connecting people to each other and to the resources they need for themselves and their communities to thrive imaginatively and joyfully. Trina is certain that all places have the assets they need – whether it’s people, ideas, skills, or material goods – to thrive and looks forward to every opportunity to learn about how terrific and resilient Montana’s communities are.
