On December 3, 2025, Governor Healey and Commissioner Goldstein hosted a Forum on
Strengthening Trust in Childhood Vaccines ahead of the upcoming ACIP meeting. I was honored
to be invited to join the forum and stand with them during the press conference, representing the
Massachusetts Association of Public Health Nurses.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside such dedicated leaders and engage in
meaningful conversations about vaccines and the realities we are seeing across our communities.
Our discussions centered on concerns about potential changes to the childhood vaccine
schedule—including the Hepatitis B vaccine—as well as the experiences of families and
individuals with autism who continue to confront misleading information linking vaccines and
autism. We also explored what is needed to build and maintain trust in public health and vaccines
among our residents.
Commissioner Goldstein, Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Kiame Mahaniah, and
Under Secretary Amy Rosenthal led the forum’s discussions. They highlighted the diverse
challenges identified by participants and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing this dialogue
and ensuring stakeholders have the resources they need to navigate vaccine misinformation and
preserve access to immunizations.
During the forum, I spoke about the vital role of public health nursing and local public health in
meeting community members where they are. I emphasized the importance of the immunization
clinics, health fairs, and community-based services we provide, and how public health nurses
continue to serve as trusted and knowledgeable resources for the residents of Massachusetts.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Office of Local and Regional Health for ensuring that
MAPHN is included in these essential discussions. I deeply appreciate the value they place on
public health nursing. It is a privilege to represent MAPHN, highlight the incredible work our
members do, and continue building partnerships with state and local leaders that will strengthen
and protect the health of our Commonwealth.
-Tiffany Benoit MPH, RN, CHO
MAPHN President
View the full press conference with Governor Healy Below: