APHN Past and Present

The Association of Public Health Nurses (APHN) has a rich history. APHN began as the Association of State and Territorial Directors of Nursing (ASTDN) in 1935 as an advisory group of state health department nurses. The organization has grown over the years with members from across the United States and territories. APHN is an affiliate of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO). APHN is the voice of public health nurses on a national level. APHN provides a forum for public health nurses at all levels of practice to network and exchange ideas.

Over the years the membership was expanded to include public health nurses at all levels and others interested in public health nursing. The name of the association was changed to better reflect the expanded membership. The Association of Public Health Nurses (APHN) was formed on July 1, 2012. The association was formerly the Association of State & Territorial Directors of Nursing (ASTDN).