Julie Haugland, Director, NCCHC Foundation
On July 28, World Hepatitis Day, we are reminded how education continues to transform health care. Advances in prevention, screening, treatment, and care coordination have dramatically improved outcomes for individuals living with viral hepatitis. For correctional health professionals—who often care for populations disproportionately affected by hepatitis—staying informed on current best practices can make a meaningful difference in both individual and public health.
But hepatitis is just one example.
Every day, correctional health care professionals face new challenges, emerging research, evolving standards of care, and opportunities to improve patient outcomes. That’s why one of the most important qualities in a health care professional is a commitment to lifelong learning.
Every educational opportunity—whether attending a conference, mentoring a colleague, earning a certification, participating in a webinar, or learning about an emerging health issue—strengthens the correctional health care workforce and ultimately improves patient care.
Whether learning about mental health, substance use disorders, chronic disease management, infectious diseases, trauma-informed care, or reentry planning, continuing education equips correctional health professionals with the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to provide high-quality, evidence-based care.
Together, We’re Shaping Tomorrow, Today.
At the NCCHC Foundation, we believe education is one of the strongest investments we can make in the future of correctional health care. Through conference scholarships, mentorship, workforce development initiatives, and professional education, we are helping prepare today’s professionals to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
A stronger workforce isn’t built overnight. It is built through curiosity, collaboration, mentorship, and a shared commitment to continuous learning.
As we recognize World Hepatitis Day, we also celebrate every correctional health professional who chooses to grow, share knowledge, and invest in excellence. Their commitment to lifelong learning strengthens not only our profession, but also the health and well-being of the justice-involved individuals and communities they serve.
Because when we invest in learning today, we build a stronger workforce for tomorrow.
Continue the Journey
Whether you’re just beginning your career or have decades of experience, every educational opportunity helps strengthen the correctional health care workforce.
Explore how the NCCHC Foundation supports professional growth through scholarships, mentorship, workforce development initiatives, and continuing education. You can also read up on our Position Statement on the treatment of Hepatitis C and more.
