Diane L. Adams, MD, MPH, DABCHS, CHS-III
Diane L. Adams, MD, MPH, DABCHS, CHS-III, is a physician and public health consultant with more than four decades of experience in family medicine, preventive medicine, and public health. She combines clinical expertise with deep knowledge of population health, strategic planning, and health policy. A veteran of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, the Office of the Surgeon General, Dr. Adams also served as a legislative fellow for former, deceased Congressman Louis Stokes (D-OH), helping to secure funding for minority health research centers. She completed her MD at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, followed by a three-year Family Medicine residency at Howard University Hospital, and a Preventive Medicine residency with an MPH both at Johns Hopkins University in 1980. Dr. Adams was instrumental in establishing the Health Informatics & Information Technology (HIIT) Section within the American Public Health Association (APHA), where she continues to provide leadership and mentorship. Her work bridges technology, policy, and public health, emphasizing ethical practices, evidence-based solutions, and innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Recognized as a leader in health informatics, she has earned international awards for her contributions to research, policy development, and education. Beyond APHA, she actively volunteers with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated, contributing to community engagement and mentoring initiatives that support health equity and education. Based in Montgomery County, Maryland, Dr. Adams continues to consult, mentor students, and participate in community health initiatives, blending clinical training with public health expertise. She emphasizes trust, wisdom, strategic thinking, and legacy, striving to leave work that benefits communities and future generations. Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to improving health outcomes through innovation, leadership, and collaboration, making her a respected figure in both clinical and public health arenas.
• Howard University Family Medicine, FP Certification
• The Johns Hopkins University,
GPM Certification, Preventive Medicine Residency
• American Board for Certification in Homeland Security
• Howard University - BS, Zoology and Pre-Med
• Rutgers New Jersey Medical School - MD
• Howard University Family Medicine Residency
• John Hopkins General Preventative Residency
• The Johns Hopkins University - MPH
• Author of a Best Selling Book: "Health Issues for Women of Color: A Cultural Diversity Perspective."
• 2025 Global Recognition Award
• American Medical Association
• American Public Health Association
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
• The Links, Incorporated
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
• The United Nations-USA
• United Nations Association of the National Capital Area
• United Nations Council, United States of America Association (UNC-USA)
• The Links, Incorporated
What do you attribute your success to?
Faith, drive, the guidance of her grandfather and other mentors, strategic persistence, and a commitment to helping others.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
From her grandfather: 'Whatever you do always helps someone else.'
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When people tell you 'no,' don't accept it; pursue your goals strategically. Surround yourself with kind and sincere people who are trustworthy; seek mentors who are patient and knowledgeable; respect older people; focus on mentoring and lift others up.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges: structural barriers and pay inequity for women and Black women; being overlooked for leadership roles. Opportunities: the expansion of health informatics/IT, networking and publishing platforms that amplify voices, and community-focused public health interventions.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trust, wisdom, strategic thinking, ambition, mentoring, and building a lasting legacy.
Locations
American Public Health Association/Health Informatics Information Technology
Silver Spring, MD 20906
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