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Texas Department Of State Health Services

  • About Texas Department of State Health Services

  • Mission and Values

  • Organizational Structure

  • Programs and Services

  • Public Health Emergencies and Preparedness

  • Regulations and Compliance

  • Data and Statistics

  • News and Updates

  • Get Involved: Volunteers, Careers and Internships

  • Contact Information

About Texas Department of State Health Services

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is the state health agency responsible for protecting and improving the health and well-being of Texans. The department was created in 2004 by combining the Texas Department of Health and the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation. DSHS has a broad mandate that includes preventing and controlling communicable diseases, providing access to healthcare services, promoting healthy lifestyles, regulating health facilities and services, and preparing for public health emergencies.

Mission and Values

DSHS's mission is to improve the health and well-being of Texans through leadership, partnership, innovation, and performance. The department's core values include integrity, excellence, accountability, respect, and teamwork. These values guide DSHS's efforts to provide high-quality public health services and to partner with communities, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to promote healthy living and prevent disease.

Organizational Structure

DSHS is organized into six divisions: Regional and Local Health Services, Disease Control and Prevention, Family and Community Health Services, Regulatory Services, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and Emergency Preparedness and Response. Each division is responsible for specific programs and services related to its area of expertise. DSHS also has several offices that support the department's operations, including the Office of the Commissioner, the Office of General Counsel, the Office of Policy and Performance Management, and the Office of Communications.

Programs and Services

DSHS offers a wide range of programs and services to promote and protect the health and well-being of Texans. Some of the key programs and services include:- Immunizations: DSHS provides vaccines to healthcare providers and local health departments to prevent and control vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella.- Women's Health: DSHS offers family planning and reproductive health services to low-income women through the Healthy Texas Women program.- Chronic Disease Prevention: DSHS works to prevent and manage chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer through education, screening, and other interventions.- Environmental Health: DSHS regulates and monitors environmental factors that can affect public health, such as air and water quality, food safety, and hazardous waste.- Mental Health and Substance Abuse: DSHS provides a range of services to support individuals with mental health and substance use disorders, including crisis intervention, counseling, and medication management.

Public Health Emergencies and Preparedness

DSHS plays a critical role in preparing for and responding to public health emergencies such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and bioterrorism events. The department works closely with local health departments, healthcare providers, emergency management agencies, and other partners to develop and implement emergency plans and to coordinate response efforts. DSHS also provides training and resources to help individuals and communities prepare for emergencies and to respond effectively when they occur.

Regulations and Compliance

DSHS is responsible for regulating a wide range of healthcare facilities and services to ensure that they meet state and federal standards for safety and quality. This includes hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and others. DSHS also licenses and certifies healthcare professionals such as physicians, nurses, and social workers. The department investigates complaints and enforces regulations to protect the health and safety of patients and clients.

Data and Statistics

DSHS collects and analyzes data on a wide range of health-related topics to inform public health policy and practice. The department maintains several data systems and repositories, including the Texas Health Data website, which provides access to a wealth of health-related data and statistics. DSHS also conducts research and evaluation to identify effective strategies for improving public health outcomes.

News and Updates

DSHS provides regular updates on its programs, services, and initiatives through its website and social media channels. The department also issues news releases and other communications to keep the public informed about important public health issues and events. Individuals can sign up for email alerts and newsletters to stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments from DSHS.

Get Involved: Volunteers, Careers and Internships

DSHS offers a variety of opportunities for individuals to get involved in public health and to contribute to the department's mission. This includes volunteer opportunities, internships, and career opportunities in a wide range of fields, including healthcare, public health, environmental health, and emergency preparedness. Individuals can visit the DSHS website to learn more about current opportunities and to apply.

Contact Information

Individuals can contact DSHS by phone, email, or mail to ask questions, provide feedback, or access services. The department's main phone number is (512) 776-7111, and its email address is dshs@dshs.texas.gov. Individuals can also find contact information for specific programs and services on the DSHS website.

People Also Ask about Texas Department of State Health Services

What is the Texas Department of State Health Services?

The Texas Department of State Health Services is a state agency responsible for protecting and improving the health and well-being of Texans through various public health programs and services.

What services does the Texas Department of State Health Services provide?

The Texas Department of State Health Services provides a wide range of services including disease prevention and control, emergency preparedness and response, health promotion and education, vital records registration, environmental health regulation, and more.

How can I contact the Texas Department of State Health Services?

You can contact the Texas Department of State Health Services by phone, email, or postal mail. Visit their website for more information on how to contact them.

What is the mission of the Texas Department of State Health Services?

The mission of the Texas Department of State Health Services is to improve the health and well-being of Texans by providing leadership and services that promote health, prevent disease, and protect the public from environmental and other hazards.