This Public Relations Handbook is intended to help employees in public hospital districts prepare and perform effective public relations, media relations, crisis communications, and community outreach programs. The handbook provides guidelines and tips for how to draft a public relations plan, respond effectively to media inquiries, garner positive publicity, create a newsletter, plan special events, enhance or build a Web site, and much more.

Many people who perform public relations roles in hospitals have little or no formal training in the field. To make this handbook as useful as possible, topics are discussed "from the ground up." It provides step-by-step approaches that can be followed successfully by the beginner. Even seasoned professionals will find the handbook's tips and reminders a useful reference.

The Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts hopes this handbook will be a useful tool throughout your ongoing public relations efforts. The Association encourages you to add materials to the Handbook that are particularly helpful to you. In addition, the Association will send periodic updates when appropriate.

The complete text of this handbook is available on the AWPHD web site at www.awphd.org under the Publications & Resources section.

Harris & Smith Public Affairs prepared this handbook for the Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts and its members. Address questions or comments to Alisha Holdener at
(206) 343-0250 or alisha@harrisandsmith.com.