US Public Health Accompaniment Unit FAQs

What is it?

A team of PIH experts who support public health agencies in the United States. They offer free advice and materials to help cities, counties and states create effective, equitable, and responsible contact tracing programs.  

Who is doing this?  

Roughly 40 PIH staff, including policy experts, physicians, and more.  

How much does it cost?  

Nothing. All services to partners are offered pro bono.

So you’re just sharing a bunch of slide decks?  

No. USPHAU walks shoulder to shoulder with partners while they implement their programs, helping make sure they can take the latest technical advice and adapt it to the particular needs of each community.  

When did this start?  

It was formally created May 1, 2020, and announced on May 13, 2020.  

Where is it based?  

The USPHAU is mostly remote, with advisors living across the country. We also have several advisors physically sitting with public health departments in their respective jurisdictions.

Is the US Public Health Accompaniment Unit a part of Partners In Health or an off-shoot?  

It’s a part of PIH. One could think of it as another country site, like Malawi or Peru or Haiti.  

Who created this?  

PIH CEO Dr. Sheila Davis created the USPHAU to meet widespread demand for technical assistance in contact tracing.  

Who is funding it? 

The Audacious Project, a fund for social entrepreneurs and nonprofits, covered the launch with a multi-million-dollar donation.  

Has anyone “hired” USPHAU yet? 

Yes. So far, the USPHAU is working in different capacities in the following jurisdictions: Newark, New Jersey; Ohio; North Carolina; Illinois; Pima County, Arizona; Fulton County, Georgia; Immokalee, FL; Montgomery, AL; Navajo Nation; and Toronto, Canada.