DPH Commissioner Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald congratulates Dr. Patrice Harris, left, and Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, right, on receiving the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Board of Trustees' 2012 Public Health Award on Dec. 17.

Two of Georgia's most ardent public health advocates have been recognized for their commitment to improving the health of their communities. The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority Board of Trustees named Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, director of the DeKalb County Board of Health, and Dr. Patrice Harris, director of health services for Fulton County, as Health Care Heroes.

 

The organization recognizes as Health Care Heroes individuals who make significant contributions to the health of their communities. Ford and Harris were given the 2012 Public Health Award for their achievements in improving the health of Georgians, particularly those in underserved communities, and for serving as positive role models to young women seeking careers in the medical field.

 

At an awards ceremony Dec. 17 at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), said the women make a significant difference in the lives of the people they serve.

 

"Public health officials aren't very often recognized for their contributions to the overall well-being of the community," she said. "When organizations like the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority take the time to salute individuals who overcome daunting odds every day to improve health and health care, it is a tremendous honor."

 

In her position with Fulton County, Harris directs the administration of all of the county's health services, serving a population of over 915,000 people. She also manages the operation of the county's public health network with community-based, neighborhood health centers as well as mobile health units that deliver a wide range of public health, behavioral health, primary care and prevention services.

 

Ford has been the district health director of the DeKalb County Board of Health since 2005. She oversees clinical and population-based services for an area with about 700,000 residents who represent more ethnic groups than any other county in the southeastern U.S.

 

"I am very proud to receive this award. I share the honor with the DeKalb County Board of Health staff who've helped to contribute towards improving the health and lives of the people who live, work and play in DeKalb County," Ford said.
 

-Story by Carrie Gann, DPH Communications