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Missouri Department Of Health & Senior Services

  • Introduction
  • Overview of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS)
  • Mission Statement of DHSS
  • Leadership and Administration
  • Services Offered by DHSS
  • Public Health Programs and Initiatives
  • Senior Services and Programs
  • Women, Infant and Child (WIC) Program
  • Child Care Licensing and Regulations
  • Contact Information for DHSS

Introduction

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is an agency of the state government of Missouri responsible for promoting and protecting public health, as well as providing services to seniors and families. DHSS works with local health departments, healthcare providers, community organizations, and other partners to ensure that all Missourians have access to high-quality health care services.

Overview of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS)

DHSS was established in 1974 to consolidate various state health agencies into one entity. The department is headquartered in Jefferson City and has several divisions, including the Division of Community and Public Health, the Division of Senior and Disability Services, and the Division of Regulation and Licensure.DHSS is responsible for a wide range of programs and initiatives designed to improve the health and well-being of Missourians. These programs include disease prevention and control, health promotion, maternal and child health, environmental health, emergency preparedness and response, and many others.

Mission Statement of DHSS

The mission of DHSS is to promote and protect the health and well-being of all Missourians. The department strives to achieve this mission by working collaboratively with public and private partners to prevent disease and injury, promote healthy behaviors, and ensure access to quality health care services.

Leadership and Administration

DHSS is led by a director who is appointed by the governor of Missouri and confirmed by the state Senate. The director is responsible for overseeing the department's operations and ensuring that its programs and services are carried out efficiently and effectively.The department also has a number of other leadership positions, including deputy directors and division directors, who oversee specific areas of the department's work. In addition, DHSS has a number of staff members who work in administrative roles, such as human resources, finance, and information technology.

Services Offered by DHSS

DHSS offers a wide range of services to Missourians, including public health programs and initiatives, senior services and programs, child care licensing and regulations, and many others. Some of the department's most important services are described below.

Public Health Programs and Initiatives

DHSS is responsible for a number of programs and initiatives designed to promote and protect the health of all Missourians. These programs include:
  • Disease Prevention and Control - DHSS works to prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis B and C. The department provides testing, treatment, and counseling services to individuals who are at risk of these diseases.
  • Health Promotion - DHSS promotes healthy behaviors such as physical activity, healthy eating, and tobacco cessation. The department also provides education and outreach services to help Missourians make informed decisions about their health.
  • Maternal and Child Health - DHSS provides a variety of services to pregnant women and children, including prenatal care, immunizations, and nutrition assistance. The department also works to prevent infant mortality and promote healthy child development.
  • Environmental Health - DHSS works to protect Missourians from environmental hazards such as air pollution, lead poisoning, and foodborne illness. The department also regulates public water systems and inspects food establishments to ensure that they meet health and safety standards.
  • Emergency Preparedness and Response - DHSS prepares for and responds to public health emergencies such as disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and bioterrorism incidents. The department works closely with local and federal partners to ensure that Missouri is prepared to respond to any emergency.

Senior Services and Programs

DHSS provides a variety of services and programs to seniors and their families. These services include:
  • Home and Community-Based Services - DHSS provides a range of services to help seniors live independently in their communities. These services include home-delivered meals, transportation assistance, and personal care services.
  • Nursing Home Oversight - DHSS oversees the licensing and regulation of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. The department also investigates complaints and concerns about the quality of care provided in these facilities.
  • Senior Medicare Patrol - DHSS provides education and outreach services to seniors to help them detect and prevent Medicare fraud and abuse.

Women, Infant and Child (WIC) Program

The WIC program is a federal program that provides nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. DHSS administers the WIC program in Missouri, providing eligible participants with healthy foods, nutrition education, and referrals to health care and social services.

Child Care Licensing and Regulations

DHSS is responsible for licensing and regulating child care facilities in Missouri. The department conducts inspections and investigations to ensure that these facilities meet health and safety standards, and it provides training and technical assistance to child care providers.

Contact Information for DHSS

DHSS can be contacted at:Missouri Department of Health and Senior ServicesPO Box 570Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570Phone: 573-751-6301Website: https://health.mo.gov/

Frequently Asked Questions about Missouri Department Of Health & Senior Services

What is the Missouri Department Of Health & Senior Services?

The Missouri Department Of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) is a state agency responsible for promoting and protecting the health of Missourians and providing services to seniors and people with disabilities.

What services does the Missouri Department Of Health & Senior Services provide?

The DHSS provides a wide range of services, including disease prevention and control, public health emergency preparedness, environmental health, food safety and inspection, licensing and certification of health care facilities and professionals, and programs and services for seniors and people with disabilities.

How can I contact the Missouri Department Of Health & Senior Services?

You can contact the DHSS by phone at (573) 751-6006 or toll-free at (800) 392-0272, or by email at info@health.mo.gov. You can also visit their website at health.mo.gov for more information and to find specific contact information for different programs and services.