About Us

With its unique geographic configuration of 351 individual cities and towns, Massachusetts has historically lacked a formal unified voice around issues of public health nursing. At various times over past years, separate municipal public health nursing groups formed to provide an opportunity for nurses to network. As the membership increased among the individual groups and similar issues/concerns emerged, it became apparent that a statewide organization for public health nurses was imperative.

In 1996 members of the existing regional public health nursing groups began to meet to establish the mission, develop goals and objectives as well as pass bylaws that would guide the Massachusetts Association of Public Health Nurses. The MAPHN was officially incorporated in October of 1998 and received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.

Since its inception, membership has grown to include nurses from across the state of Massachusetts and even extending to other New England states. In addition, MAPHN has opened its membership to include associate members who are non-nursing professionals. Health agents, health directors, and board members are a sample of associate MAPHN members who join and support our ranks. Through our combined efforts, the expanded role of the public health nurse has been supported and strengthened; enabling us to provide enhanced professional services and leadership for all citizens of the Commonwealth.

2025-2026 President Statement

Dear Massachusetts Association of Public Health Nurses, 

The Executive Committee wanted to take some time to acknowledge the current changes we are seeing that make our work challenging and firmly take a stand on what MAPHN knows to be true. 

The Massachusetts Association of Public Health Nurses (MAPHN) operates under the belief that healthcare is a universal right that transcends social and economic status and identity. 

We firmly believe that everyone deserves equal access to the best science-based care and preventive services possible. We believe in science. We believe that research brings forward trustworthy, evidence-based strategies that ensure the safety and welfare of all. 

We believe that vaccines are vital to public health and wellness, and should be accessible to everyone. As research has supported, vaccines are crucial in decreasing the burden of illness and premature death and maintaining high immunity levels. 

We believe Medicaid is essential. People in Massachusetts and millions across the nation rely on Medicaid to receive vital health care and services for themselves and their loved ones.

MAPHN is committed to taking every step necessary to support the needs of public health nurses and our public health partners as it relates to our beliefs, and the ability to provide access to all people, especially those who are vulnerable and dependent on accessible care.

-Tiffany Benoit MPH, RN, CHO

MAPHN PRESIDENT