Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer
Home / Department / Health / Public

Iowa Public Health Department

  • History: Learn about the establishment and evolution of Iowa Public Health Department
  • Leadership: Meet the current leaders of Iowa Public Health Department and their roles
  • Services: Discover the range of public health services provided by Iowa Public Health Department
  • Programs: Explore the various programs offered and managed by Iowa Public Health Department
  • Community Partnerships: Understand the importance of community partnerships in achieving Iowa Public Health Department's goals
  • Data and Reports: Access informative and valuable data and reports on public health in Iowa
  • Immunizations: Learn about the importance of vaccinations and available immunization services
  • Emergency Response: Be informed about Iowa Public Health Department's preparedness and response to public health emergencies
  • Careers: Explore career opportunities with Iowa Public Health Department
  • News and Updates: Stay up-to-date with latest news and updates from Iowa Public Health Department

History

The Iowa Public Health Department was established in 1880, making it one of the oldest state health departments in the United States. Its primary goal was to improve the health and well-being of Iowans by preventing disease outbreaks and promoting healthy behaviors. Over the years, the department has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, including addressing chronic diseases, environmental health hazards, and emerging infectious diseases. Today, the Iowa Public Health Department is a vital resource for individuals, families, and communities across the state.

Leadership

The Iowa Public Health Department is led by a team of experienced professionals who are committed to improving the health of Iowans. Dr. Caitlin Pedati serves as the State Epidemiologist and Medical Director, overseeing the department's efforts to prevent and control infectious diseases. Sarah Reisetter is the Deputy Director of Public Health, responsible for overseeing the department's daily operations and managing partnerships with local health departments and other stakeholders. Other key leaders include the Director of Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention, the Director of Environmental Health Services, and the Director of Emergency Preparedness and Response.

Services

The Iowa Public Health Department provides a wide range of public health services to individuals, families, and communities across the state. These services include immunizations, health screenings, disease surveillance and investigation, emergency preparedness and response, and environmental health inspections. The department also provides educational resources and outreach programs to promote healthy behaviors and prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Programs

The Iowa Public Health Department manages a variety of programs designed to address specific public health issues in the state. These programs include the Iowa WIC Program, which provides nutrition education and support to low-income pregnant women and young children, and the Iowa Quitline, which offers free resources and support to individuals who want to quit smoking. Other programs focus on topics such as oral health, lead poisoning prevention, and maternal and child health.

Community Partnerships

The Iowa Public Health Department recognizes the critical role that community partnerships play in achieving its goals. The department works closely with local health departments, healthcare providers, schools, and other organizations to promote healthy behaviors and prevent disease outbreaks. The Iowa Department of Public Health also partners with state agencies such as the Iowa Department of Education and the Iowa Department of Human Services to address broader public health issues such as mental health and substance abuse.

Data and Reports

The Iowa Public Health Department provides a wealth of data and reports on public health in the state. These resources include the Iowa Health Fact Book, which provides statistical information on a variety of health topics, and the Iowa Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which tracks trends in health behaviors such as smoking and physical activity. The department also provides reports and updates on emerging infectious diseases and other public health threats.

Immunizations

Immunizations are a critical tool for preventing the spread of infectious diseases. The Iowa Public Health Department provides a variety of immunization services to individuals of all ages, including routine childhood vaccinations, travel vaccines, and flu shots. The department also offers education and outreach programs to promote the importance of immunizations and address common misconceptions about vaccine safety.

Emergency Response

The Iowa Public Health Department is responsible for preparing and responding to public health emergencies such as disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and bioterrorism events. The department works closely with local health departments, healthcare providers, and emergency management agencies to develop plans and protocols for responding to these events. The department also provides training and resources to healthcare providers and other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated response in the event of an emergency.

Careers

The Iowa Public Health Department offers a variety of career opportunities for individuals interested in public health. These positions range from epidemiologists and environmental health specialists to health educators and emergency preparedness coordinators. The department values diversity and seeks to recruit and retain a talented and diverse workforce.

News and Updates

The Iowa Public Health Department provides regular updates on its website and social media channels to keep the public informed about emerging public health issues and department initiatives. The department also publishes a newsletter that highlights department activities and features interviews with staff members and community partners.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Iowa Public Health Department

What is the Iowa Public Health Department?

The Iowa Public Health Department is a state agency responsible for protecting and promoting the health of Iowans through disease surveillance, prevention, and control; health promotion and wellness; public health emergency preparedness and response; and regulation of healthcare providers and facilities.

What services does the Iowa Public Health Department provide?

The Iowa Public Health Department provides a wide range of services, including immunizations, family planning, HIV/AIDS testing and counseling, tuberculosis testing and treatment, food safety inspections, and environmental health assessments. They also provide information and resources on a variety of public health topics, such as nutrition, physical activity, tobacco use prevention, and emergency preparedness.

How can I contact the Iowa Public Health Department?

You can contact the Iowa Public Health Department by phone, email, or mail. Their main phone number is (515) 281-7689, and their email address is idphwebmaster@idph.iowa.gov. Their mailing address is Iowa Department of Public Health, Lucas State Office Building, 321 E. 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-0075.

How can I stay informed about public health issues in Iowa?

The Iowa Public Health Department provides regular updates on public health issues through their website, social media channels, and email newsletters. You can also sign up for alerts and notifications through their Iowa Health Alert Network (HAN) system.

Does the Iowa Public Health Department offer any resources for healthcare providers?

Yes, the Iowa Public Health Department offers a variety of resources for healthcare providers, including information on disease reporting and surveillance, vaccine administration and storage, infection prevention and control, and emergency preparedness and response. They also provide training and continuing education opportunities for healthcare professionals.