Kat Penna, M.P.H.

Kat Penna, M.P.H., Health Policy Analyst Phone: 337-482-1358 Email: kathryn.penna@louisiana.edu Education: M.P.H. in Health Behavior University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL – 2010 B.A. in Communication and Professional Writing Centenary College of Louisiana Shreveport, LA – 2005

Center Duties:
The Health Policy Analyst informs the Picard Center research team of public policy and public health policy from federal and state agencies that affect the development, implementation, and application of research
generated at the Picard Center. The Public Health Analyst is responsible for monitoring current policies and policy trends at the local, state, national, and international levels affecting the health, education, and well-being of children and families. 

Professional Background:
Over 10 years of experience in health services research with a focus on the impact of health literacy and other health systems factors on a person’s ability to successfully navigate healthcare. Research experience and interests extend across various contexts and include disease prevention, chronic disease self-management, medication safety, and effective ‘low-literacy’ intervention strategies to help individuals promote, protect, and manage their health.