DISTRICT PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Local Government>District Public Health Department

The Public Health Department is a branch of County government as specified in Act 368, P.A. 1978. The County appoints a Board of Public Health consisting of six members. Their responsibilities include, but are not limited to, approval of Health Department programs, interpretation and understanding of such programs and approval of budget and expenditures. Their management of the department is handled by the Health Officer/Administrator who is responsible for the leadership and fiscal integrity of the department. He/she has the responsibility of interpreting and enforcing the laws and regulations, designing and implementing programs. The Department is divided into seven divisions, each having its own director of services. The Health Officer relies on their decision making ability and communication skills in an effort to provide and improve effectiveness and efficiency.

1) Environmental Health

The Environmental Health Division provides comprehensive services for the control, management, and improvements of the environment.

2) Personal Health Services

Services within this Division include, but are not limited to; Communicable Disease Control, T.B., STD, Otology Clinics, Immunization, Early Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment, School Health, Maternal and Infant Support Services and Public Health Nursing of acute chronic diseases.

3) Dental Department

Offers a wide range of services including exams, cleanings, preventative services, x-rays, fluoride treatment, silver and white fillings, dentures, TMJ therapy, extractions and oral hygiene instructions.

4) Substance Abuse

The Substance Abuse program provides assistance to clients who abuse alcohol and other drugs to become drug free and fully functioning.

5) Information Management Systems

The Information Management system being utilized is a combination of microcomputer-based systems and an Altos Mini computer using CMHC software.

6) Health Education

The health educator works with the department staff in promoting the programs and services and developing the educational aspect of those programs.

7) Reproductive Health and Geriatric Services

The Reproductive Health Clinics provides comprehensive medical, social, and emotional services to all county residents to enable them to meet their own personal child bearing objectives and promote reproductive health. Geriatric services will be expanded to include a community assessment of needs with subsequent development of pertinent programs to meet those needs the elderly.

Human Services West Building [Click here to view full size picture]

Page Last Updated: 7/24/2003