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News Summary

Augusta University has announced the appointment of Dr. Aaron J. Kruse-Diehr as the first chair of the newly established Department of Community and Behavioral Health Sciences, effective June 2025. Dr. Kruse-Diehr, an implementation scientist, aims to enhance public health initiatives, focusing on community engagement and research programs to improve health outcomes in underserved populations.

Augusta Appoints Dr. Aaron J. Kruse-Diehr as Chair of Community and Behavioral Health Sciences

Augusta, GA – Augusta University has appointed Dr. Aaron J. Kruse-Diehr as the inaugural chair of the newly formed Department of Community and Behavioral Health Sciences, starting June 2025. This decision was announced by Dr. Teresa Waters, the Dean of the Augusta University School of Public Health, marking a significant step forward for the university’s public health initiatives.

Dr. Kruse-Diehr previously held the position of co-director at the University of Kentucky’s Center for Clinical and Translational Science Center for Implementation, Dissemination, and Evidence-based Research. He is recognized as an implementation scientist whose research and educational contributions have led to advancements in health interventions. His work primarily involves implementing patient-centered approaches in community settings, schools, and organizations.

His funded research projects aim to raise screening rates for colorectal cancer, particularly among populations that experience higher cancer rates, such as Black Americans and rural communities. Additionally, he is working on diabetes management programs that facilitate peer support for patients burdened with significant social challenges, including issues related to housing and transportation.

Vision for Community Engagement

Dr. Kruse-Diehr’s focus extends beyond research alone; he is dedicated to translating findings into practical applications. With a mission to improve health service delivery, he plans to develop a community-based research fellows program. This initiative aims to bolster workforce development within public health organizations across the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). The program is designed to help leaders align their operational efforts with community health outcomes, fostering enhanced education and support as needed.

Educational Background

Dr. Kruse-Diehr holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Ohio State University, a Master of Arts in English from DePaul University, and a PhD in Health Education from the University of Toledo. His unique educational background complements his role in public health, enabling him to communicate effectively across different sectors of the community.

Augusta Health Community Clinic Initiatives

The Augusta Health Community Clinic functions as a vital access point for individuals lacking a primary care provider. It offers comprehensive care, addressing both chronic and acute conditions alongside preventative services such as screenings and immunizations. New patients are welcome to book appointments at the clinic, which also provides various financial assistance options to ensure care is accessible, albeit not entirely free.

Furthermore, Augusta Health is conducting its ongoing Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) to pinpoint health priorities within the region. Community members are encouraged to contribute via an online survey available until March 2025.

Technological Advancements and Teaching Initiatives

In its mission to enhance healthcare delivery, Augusta Health has partnered with MEDITECH to integrate Expanse, a fully electronic health record system aimed at streamlining operations and improving patient care. This technological embrace is integral to Augusta Health’s strategy for effectively tackling community health needs.

Moreover, the new community clinic is not only focused on patient care but also serves as a teaching facility for the next generation of healthcare providers. By addressing the ongoing nationwide primary care shortage, the clinic plays a crucial role in preparing future professionals for the challenges they may face.

The appointment of Dr. Kruse-Diehr and the initiatives taken by Augusta Health highlight a dedicated effort to improve public health in Augusta and its surrounding areas through innovative research, community engagement, and education.

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