Houston Department Of Health
- About the Houston Department of Health: Learn about the department's mission, vision, and values.
- Public Health Services: Explore the different public health programs and services offered by the department.
- Health Data and Statistics: Access the latest health data and statistics for the city of Houston.
- Environmental Health Services: Learn about the department's environmental health programs, including food safety, air quality, and vector control.
- Immunization Services: Discover the different types of vaccines available for adults and children and find out how to get vaccinated.
- Healthy Eating and Active Living: Get tips on eating healthier and being more physically active, including information on the city's Healthy Houston initiative.
- Infectious Disease Control: Find out how the department is working to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19 and tuberculosis.
- Health Education and Promotion: Learn about the department's efforts to educate and promote healthy behaviors through community outreach and campaigns.
- Emergency Preparedness and Response: See how the department prepares for and responds to public health emergencies, such as natural disasters and disease outbreaks.
- Career Opportunities: Explore job opportunities with the Houston Department of Health and learn about the benefits of working in public health.
About the Houston Department of Health
The Houston Department of Health (HDH) is a public health agency that serves the city of Houston. Its mission is to protect and promote the health and well-being of residents through collaborative efforts with community partners and by providing evidence-based public health services. The vision of the HDH is to create a healthy and equitable Houston, where all individuals have access to resources that promote and sustain optimal health outcomes. The department's values include equity, integrity, innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
Public Health Services
The HDH offers a wide range of public health programs and services to residents of Houston. These include disease prevention and control, environmental health, immunization services, healthy eating and active living promotion, health education and promotion, and emergency preparedness and response. The department also provides clinical services such as STD testing and treatment, family planning, and HIV testing and counseling.
Disease Prevention and Control
The HDH is responsible for preventing the spread of infectious diseases in the city. This includes monitoring disease outbreaks, investigating disease cases, and promoting vaccination. The department has played a critical role in the COVID-19 pandemic response, working closely with healthcare providers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to provide guidance and support to prevent the spread of the virus.
Environmental Health
The HDH's environmental health programs focus on protecting the public from environmental hazards such as air pollution, foodborne illness, and vector-borne diseases. The department conducts inspections and investigations to ensure that businesses and public facilities comply with environmental health regulations. It also provides education and outreach to promote healthy environments and prevent environmental-related illnesses.
Immunization Services
The HDH offers immunization services for both children and adults. The department administers vaccines for diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. The department also provides education and outreach to promote vaccination and increase immunization rates in the community.
Healthy Eating and Active Living Promotion
The HDH's Healthy Houston initiative promotes healthy eating and active living as a way to prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. The department works with community partners to increase access to healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity. It also provides education and outreach on healthy behaviors such as healthy eating and physical activity.
Health Education and Promotion
The HDH provides health education and promotion programs to increase knowledge and awareness of public health issues such as chronic diseases, tobacco use, and substance abuse. The department works with community partners to develop and implement evidence-based interventions that promote healthy behaviors and reduce health disparities.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
The HDH is responsible for preparing for and responding to public health emergencies such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and bioterrorism events. The department works closely with local, state, and federal partners to develop emergency plans and coordinate response efforts. It also provides education and outreach to the community on emergency preparedness.
Health Data and Statistics
The HDH provides access to the latest health data and statistics for the city of Houston. This includes information on demographics, health behaviors, and health outcomes. The department uses this data to identify health disparities and develop targeted interventions to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Career Opportunities
The HDH offers a variety of job opportunities in public health. These include positions in disease prevention and control, environmental health, immunization services, health education and promotion, emergency preparedness and response, and clinical services. The department offers competitive salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
Conclusion
The Houston Department of Health plays a critical role in protecting and promoting the health and well-being of residents of Houston. Through its public health programs and services, the department works to prevent disease, promote healthy behaviors, and reduce health disparities. By providing access to the latest health data and statistics, the department is able to identify areas of need and develop targeted interventions to improve health outcomes for all residents. If you are interested in a career in public health, consider exploring job opportunities with the Houston Department of Health.
Frequently Asked Questions about Houston Department Of Health
What services does Houston Department Of Health provide?
Houston Department Of Health provides a range of public health services including immunizations, disease control and prevention, environmental health, and community health education.
How can I get vaccinated at Houston Department Of Health?
You can make an appointment at one of Houston Department Of Health's vaccination clinics or visit their mobile vaccination units. You can also check their website for upcoming vaccination events.
What should I do if I suspect I have a communicable disease?
If you suspect you have a communicable disease, you should contact Houston Department Of Health immediately. They will provide guidance on testing and treatment options and help prevent the spread of the disease to others.
Does Houston Department Of Health provide mental health services?
Houston Department Of Health does not provide mental health services directly. However, they have partnerships with community organizations that provide mental health resources and can help connect individuals to those services.
