New Recruit Inspired by Africa’s Health Challenges

Revela Agbokou

By Lynn Hardison | Director of Nursing | Pamlico County Health Dept.

BAYBORO – Revela Agbokou, a recent graduate of Georgia Southern University, has joined the Pamlico County Health Department as a ‘Center for Disease Control (CDC) Public Health Associate.’

This exciting development marks the arrival of a passionate public health professional who is committed to improving the health and well-being of Pamlico County and a historic achievement for Pamlico County.

Originally from Togo, West Africa, Revela moved to Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of nine with her family. Inspired by the challenges faced by women and girls in her homeland – lack of access to care, low health literacy, and issues related to unreliable transportation infrastructure — she developed a strong desire to pursue a career in public health. Her academic journey led her to receive a Master’s degree in Public Health Informatics and Health Policy and to join an organization that promotes health equity, which eventually led her to the CDC.

The CDC Public Health Associate Program is a competitive 2-year training initiative that places public health graduates in health departments across the nation. The program aims to develop future public health leaders and practitioners by providing hands-on experience and opportunities to address critical health issues in the communities they serve.

The CDC Public Health Associate Program has a significant impact on both the communities as well as the local health departments. By providing skilled and motivated public health professionals, the program helps to enhance the capacity of health departments to address public health issues, implement evidence-based interventions and improve health outcomes.

Revela’s arrival brings a fresh perspective and knowledge to the Pamlico County Health Department. Her academic background in Public Health Informatics and Health Policy, combined with her passion for reducing health disparities and improving health equity, makes her an asset to the team. As a CDC Public Health Associate, Revela will be working closing with Lynn Hardison, Director of Nursing, and team on various initiatives with the Pamlico County Health Department including:

Child and Maternal Health: Promoting healthy pregnancies and improving maternal and child health outcomes by improving access to prenatal care.

Access to Care: Expanding healthcare access for those in under-served and vulnerable populations, particularly in rural areas.

Primary Care and Tele-Health: Promoting the use of primary care and tele-health services to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Chronic Disease Prevention: Implementing programs to prevent and manage chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

By joining the Pamlico County Health Department, Revela will have the opportunity to work closely with community members, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to address local health challenges. Her contributions will help to improve the health and well-being of the community and strengthen the county’s public health infrastructure.