In this report, we (Health team researchers at the Center for Advanced Hindsight at Duke University and collaborators) discuss some of our research on health behavior. We show the power of behavioral science in helping individuals at every stage of their healthcare journey. Taking care of our health does not just mean going to the doctor when we are ill or taking our medication. It also means doing the things that will prevent us from getting ill and taking care of our health finances. In other words, health is about curative care, prevention and finance, which together forms a comprehensive approach to health behavior. We think of health as a tree, where the roots symbolize stable finances, the trunk stands for adequate prevention, and the branches and leaves, which grow back when they fall off, symbolize curative care.
Joseph Walters
Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshall (OSFM)
Executive Officer
Joe Walters is the Executive Officer for the State Fire Marshal, with the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal (OSFM). As the first “Executive Officer ” Joe has been integral in moving the OSFM into the 21st century, from technology advancements, fleet refreshments, equipment needs to health and wellness awareness. Since 2016, he has also led a part in the agencies community risk reduction programs. He has been proactive in fire prevention programs throughout the State and has assisted with the dissemination of important fire & life saving information via social media and other platforms. He currently sits on the Mid Atlantic Life Safety Conference Committee as the operations command, trying to enhance the program. By trade he is a fire investigator and worked in the field for several years prior to the appointment of Executive Officer. He worked several high profile cases and made many arson and explosive related arrests. He has had the opportunity to sit in forums such as the Truman Symposiums and the FEMA AFG content development group. On his off time, he is a 20-year veteran of the volunteer fire service where he currently serves in the role of Captain. He has held many roles including Assistant Treasurer and Vice President. He is also an instructor for the National Safe Boating Council and specialize in the maritime rescue discipline. He and his wife own a small custom t-shirt business, which was started just before the birth of their child, in 2015. When not working, he loves sitting on the Chesapeake Bay on his boat or tearing up the mud four wheeling in the woods.
