Melissa Thomas, PhD, MSPH, MSA, MCHES®, C.CHW is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Primary Care at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Thomas’ research centers on her efforts to address the burden of disease in rural and Appalachia Ohio.
Current research projects include community-engaged cancer research initiatives in Appalachia Ohio and in Amish Country, identifying health outcomes and coping strategies among food insecure individuals in Appalachia, training and utilizing Community Health Workers in improving population health, improving medical education and health care resources for the LGBTQ+ community, and addressing the social determinants of health in rural communities.
She earned her PhD and Master of Science in Public Health degree from Walden University. She received a Master of Science in Administration degree from Central Michigan University and a Bachelors of Sciences from The Ohio State University.